Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño was recognized for his “industrialist” leadership during the Stargate PeopleAsia People of the Year 2026 Awards Night held on February 17, 2026 in Makati City.
Aliño was among the honorees recognized as role models who choose “not what is easy, but what is right.” He was cited for bringing decades of business experience to help transform Subic Bay Freeport into a dynamic economic hub and green port. Under his leadership, the agency secured nearly P600 billion in investments in 2025 alone.
Other awardees for People of the Year 2026 included Ramon S. Ang of **San Miguel Corporation as Lifetime Achievement Awardee; veteran journalist Jessica Soho; concert performer Martin Nievera; and foundation founder Sheila Romero.
Also recognized were Arnold Janssen Kalinga Center founder Fr. Flavie Villanueva, Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon and Hayden Kho Jr..
Since assuming leadership of the SBMA in January 2024, Aliño has focused on increasing revenue, attracting investments, and integrating sustainability initiatives. The agency surpassed its P4 billion operating revenue target and remitted P1.465 billion in earnings to the national government in 2025, making it one of the top dividend contributors.
In 2024, Subic recorded 159 new locators with total committed investments of P20.6 billion and generated 6,466 new jobs. Aliño also launched the Green Anchor Awards to recognize partners excelling in sustainability and trade facilitation, while pushing forward his Greenport vision that includes sustainable industrial parks and expanded digital infrastructure.
In early 2026, SBMA ranked first in overall performance in the Quarterly Survey of Philippine Business and Industry conducted by the Philippine Statistics Authority.
Aliño also secured major global investors, including Hyundai Heavy Industries, seen as a boost to Subic’s long-term maritime and industrial development. He also spearheaded employee housing through the Subic Bay Residencias project and supported new tourism investments such as the ibis Styles Subic Hotel.
The recognition highlighted Aliño’s continuing efforts to position Subic as a competitive and sustainable economic hub in the country.
