Ten exemplary employees were recognized as the 2025 Ten Outstanding Freeport Workers in an awarding ceremony held Wednesday, November 26, at the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center. Now on its 24th year, the annual search is jointly organized by the Subic Bay Workforce Development Foundation, Inc. (SBWDFI) and the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA).

With the theme “Dakila ka, Manggagawa,” this year’s program celebrated the honorees’ achievements and their role in strengthening the Freeport’s reputation for excellent employment practices built through strong collaboration with industry locators.

“Today we celebrate the strength and excellence of the Subic Bay Freeport workforce. These ten awardees embody discipline, professionalism, and dedication—values that drive our continuous growth,” said SBWDFI president and SBMA Labor Department manager Atty. Melvin Varias.

Board of Judges chair P/Lt. Mary Ann Sadaba, PNP–Olongapo City Public Information Officer, said they evaluated 21 nominees—12 from supervisory roles and nine from rank-and-file—based on key performance and character criteria.

This year’s Ten Outstanding Freeport Workers are:

• Rowena M. Picardal – Philippine Coastal Storage and Pipeline Corp.
• Charrie Mae M. Borja – ACE Medical Center Baypointe, Inc.
• Abraham S. Ayson – Wistron Infocomm (Philippines) Corp.
• Darren N. Dacanay – PTT Philippines Corp.
• Maureen S. Dela Cruz – PlayAsia Support Subic Ltd. Inc.
• Katrina Anne R. Valenzuela – PlayAsia Support Subic Ltd. Inc.
• Jenny Y. Dela Cruz – Royal Duty Free Shops, Inc.
• Lex Byron D. Magrata – SBMA Public Relations Department
• Alvin A. Dagdagan – Philippine Coastal Storage and Pipeline Corp.
• Alpha Eris M. Reyes – ACE Medical Center Baypointe, Inc.

Guest of honor SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño commended the awardees for their essential role in the Freeport’s progress. “You are not just valued—you are essential. Your talent, dedication, and hard work keep the heart of the Subic Bay Freeport Zone beating,” he said.

Aliño also praised the SBWDFI for its continued commitment to recognizing workers who uplift industries, inspire colleagues, and contribute to productivity and industrial harmony.

The annual search honors outstanding individuals from various Freeport locators whose excellence and contributions strengthen the Subic Bay Freeport community.