The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) gathered over 170 locators for a forum on May 26, 2025 at Subic Bay Travelers Hotel, providing updates on logistics services, port developments, and automation initiatives.
SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño led the event, with key insights delivered by Senior Deputy Administrator for Port Operations Ronnie Yambao. The forum, supported by the SBMA Seaport Department, Trade Facilitation and Compliance Department (TFCD), and Subic Bay International Container Terminal Corp. (SBITC), was also attended by SBMA Director Cecile Bobadilla-Bitare.
Yambao highlighted the recent launch of the ₱233-million Vessel Traffic Management System (VTMS), significantly enhancing vessel safety and tracking within the Freeport. He also announced that SBMA is preparing for the implementation of the Shore Power Connection project, which will cut air pollution from docked ships by up to 95%.
Phase 1 of the shore power project, with a ₱100 million budget, is scheduled to begin in 2026 at the New Container Terminal. Phase 2, covering the Naval Supply Depot and Ship Repair Facility, will follow from 2027 to 2028, with an estimated cost of ₱150 million.
Major port expansion projects amounting to over US\$878.7 million are also in the pipeline. These include:
- Container Terminal 3 (US\$359M, 300,000 TEU capacity)
- Redondo Peninsula multipurpose terminal (US\$162M)
- Lower Mau multipurpose terminal (US\$182M)
- A ₱10.2 billion dedicated cruise terminal to support tourism growth
Yambao emphasized Subic’s strategic position as a multimodal logistics hub, with port facilities accessible by land, sea, and air. Expansion plans include integration with the Luzon Economic Corridor via railway.
To streamline operations, SBMA has adopted several automation systems:
- ASYCUDA (Automated System for Customs Data)
- ETAPS (Electronic Transit Admission Permit System)
- AEDS (Automated Export Documentation System)
Looking ahead, SBMA is exploring a partnership with the Port of San Diego to transform Subic into a smart port city through AI, advanced cargo handling, and cruise infrastructure development.
