The Subic Bay Freeport has emerged as a new center for business startup innovation following the launch of the SBMA Business Acceleration Hub and the Subic Bay Angel Investor Network at the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center on October 20, 2025.
The twin initiatives, unveiled during the Dakal Lakad 2025 Demo and Graduation Day, were led by the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) under Senior Deputy Administrator for Business and Investment Renato Lee III.
Lee said the programs will strengthen Subic’s position as a hub for startups by connecting innovators with investors, strategic partners, and incentives available within the Freeport Zone.
“This project aims to stimulate the growth of startups and support them through acceleration, incentives, and opportunities here at Subic Bay,” Lee said, noting that SBMA has already helped a local BPO grow from two agents to 300.
The Angel Investor Network forms part of the implementation of Republic Act No. 11337 or the Innovative Startup Act, which promotes startup growth through the Philippine Startup Development Program jointly managed by the DOST, DTI, and DICT.
The event also marked the graduation of ten promising Central Luzon startups under the five-month acceleration program co-organized by SBMA, SULONG Central Luzon, and the Wadhwani Foundation.
The graduates include Tambanokano Aqua Farm, Dayap Philippines, Project Nitriact, Wisdom | The IP Vault Co., Kilala PH, Kloudtech, Ordermo, Hive Energy PH, InnoVSmarter, and Expoxur.
SBMA Chairman and Administrator Engr. Eduardo Jose L. Aliño thanked partner agencies and academic institutions for supporting Subic’s vision to become a platform for startup incubation.
“The SBMA remains committed to providing the guidance and environment needed for businesses to grow and succeed in Subic Bay Freeport,” Aliño said.
Present during the event were DICT Region 3 Director Engr. Antonio Edward Padre, DTI Region 3 Assistant Director Richard Simangan, DOST Pampanga Director Engr. Mary Michelle Quiambao, and Bulacan State University Chancellor Dr. Ruben Borja II.
