SUBIC BAY NEWSLINK

SBMA approves $20.45-M new projects

rhonb1@gmail.com (RhonB (aka Pinkoy)) — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 02:15:00 +0000

The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) has recently approved 44 new investment projects in this free port, with total committed investments worth US$20.45 million.

The new batch of approvals, said SBMA administrator Armand Arreza, “signify the unfailing determination of the SBMA to generate more investments and create more jobs despite the global economic slowdown.”

“To a great extent, the SBMA has been successful in sustaining the developmental momentum of the Subic Bay Freeport amid an unpredictable and unstable global economy,” Arreza said.

“We hope the entry of new investments would lead to a more robust business climate at the end of 2009, and at the start of the coming year,” Arreza added.

According to Stefani Saño, SBMA senior deputy administrator for business and investment, the bulk of new investments were made in August, when 24 firms proposed projects totaling $12.95 million.

The following month, the SBMA gave the go signal for 20 other projects with projected investments of $7.5 million.

Saño said the new investments are also projected to create a total of 765 jobs.

Among the projects signed in August and September, the biggest committed investment came from Pure Petroleum Corp., which projected a $6.22-million investment for its business of importation, selling, storage and transshipment of petroleum products.

The second biggest in terms of investment commitment was Subic Business and Technology College, Inc., which will put up $4.29 million for a learning center. The school shall offer short term technical and vocational courses, as well as professional, and tertiary degree courses in various disciplines.

Rounding up the top five investors in this batch are: Bonsure Evergreen International Corp., which shall put up $2.21 million for a food manufacturi8ng business; Chifil International Import-Export Manufacturing Co., Inc., with $1.41 million for cigarette manufacturing, packaging, warehousing and transshipment; and Petron Corporation, with $1.02 million for the establishment of a gas station.

Meanwhile, of the new business projects, Pure Petroleum and Chifil Internatinal led the pack in having the biggest number of jobs to be created, both at 100. Subic Business College came next at 50 jobs, followed by 40 for Bonsure and 35 for Petron.

Saño also said that aside from the new projects, the SBMA also approved 22 investor requests for renewal of lease or sublease agreements; seven proposals for additional facilities and eight for transfer of facilities; and 16 requests for amendments of business activities.

Among those who renewed their lease agreements with the SBMA were: Rizal Commercial Banking Corp., Subic International Air Charter, Inc., Vision Air & Sea Services, Inc., Sanritsu Technology Subic, Inc., and Nakayama Precision Industries Inc.

Meanwhile, those who requested for additional facilities included Philippine Coastal Storage & Pipeline Corp., Bataan Automotive Remanufacturing Corp., R. Joseph Holdings Subic, Inc., Yong Travel & Tours & Marketing Co. Inc., and Racso Sizzler Foods Corp.. (SBMA Corporate Communications)

Subic Takes On The 21st PAC Challenge

rhonb1@gmail.com (RhonB (aka Pinkoy)) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 05:41:00 +0000

Preparation for the 21st Philippine Advertising Congress (PAC) from November 18-21 are taking place at lightning speed. This is the homestretch after more than a year of work.

One of the final details to tie up is the signing of the memorandum of agreement (MOA) with the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), where the 21st PAC will be held in its two-year old Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center.

Heads of the PAC and Advertising Board of the Philippines (AdBoard) traveled to Subic On October 23 to formalize arrangements with the SBMA authorities. SBMA CEO and Administrator Armand Arreza, SBMA Chairman Feliciano Salonga and SBMA Deputy Administrator Raul Marcelo welcomed 21st PAC chairman Margot Torres, AdBoard chairman Charmaine Camillas and 21st PAC administrator committee chairman Digna Santos in an afternoon gathering.

The group came together at the Lighthouse Marina Resort to sign the MOA amid the fast-track to the 21st PAC. Subic barely has a month to get ready to host the ad event- the result of a last minute-change of venue brought about by the inclement weather that ravaged Northern Luzon.

"Uso yata dito 'yun short and sweet," Torres says. We'd like to thank SBMA for welcoming us back to Subic. Can you imagine our luck that Subic was available? We did check Metro Manila for available venues because of the heightened fear and paranoia of the typhoons, unfortunately, there was none."

Securing Subic came was a major break for the 21st PAC. The Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center was booked for the celebration of Subic's (17-year) anniversary in the first place. Fortunately, it's organizers gave way to the 21st PAC.

"It is indeed a privelege to host the PAC for the third time," Arreza says.

The first time was 14 years ago when SBMA had to convert a basketball gymnasium into a convention facility to receive the ad congress delegates. In 2007, the 12,000 square- meter Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center was purposely built to host the 20th PAC.

"Now that you'r back, I think we have more than enough time to prepare for the 21st PAC," Arreza jokes.

Despite numerous setbacks this year, the ad congress chooses to push forward, and it does so resolutely with the purpose to make a difference.

"We started this congress with a vision which is fun and relevant learning for the industry," says Torres. "But our theme 'Perspectives: Ano sa tingin mo?' takes on a bigger challenge. We started out as an economic crisis has turned into a socioeconomic and environmental crisis."

"Action will lead to change and will lead to something productive. The first question after Typhoon Ondoy was not the pullout but how to make the ad congress relevant. If we postpone the event to a later date, how can w help? The best venue to get the industry together and discuss this is still the ad congress. That's how we can make a difference as an industry."

Subic has made it possible for the 21st PAC to carry on. The notice was short and the time in which to prepare is getting shorter by the day, but like the ad congress, Subic has risen to the challenge. It's all set. Get ready for th 21st PAC in Subic. (Business Mirror)

Photo: Oct 23, 2009 4pm Lighthouse Marina, SBFZ. The 21st Philippine Advertising Congress Memorandum of Agreement between SBMA and PAC - Signed and Sealed! From left: Deputy Administrator for Tourism RAUL MARCELO, SBMA Administrator ARMAND C. ARREZA, SBMA Chairman FELICIANO G. SALONGA, AD Board Chairman CHARMAINE CANILLAS, 21st PAC Chairman MARGOT TORRES, PAC Admin Committee Chairman DIGNA SANTOS.

Subic Bay Asian Dualthon Championships slated

rhonb1@gmail.com (RhonB (aka Pinkoy)) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 05:21:00 +0000

WORLD class action takes place in the 2009 Subic Bay ASTC Asian Duathlon Championships slated November 15 at the Subic Bay Freeport.

International Triathlon Union (ITU) number one ranked duathlete in Russian Sergey Yakolev and Japan's Aira Sawada banners the foreign field in the male and female elite class as they vie for top honors and a big slice from the P250,000 total prizes raised by organizing Triathlon Association of the Philippines (TRAP) in partnership with the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) and the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC).

Prior to the race, the ITU will first conduct a Level II Technical Official Education Seminar from November 13 and 14 with ITU Events Operations Manager Thanos Nikopolous as the lecturer.

After the seminar, participants will be asked to help officiate in the Asian Duathlon Championships and those who will pass the test may be eligible to work in the Asian Games in Guangzhou in 2010 and the Asian Beach Games in Muscat, Oman in 2011.

Joining Yakolev, who won the 2009 Mekong River ITU Duathlon World Series event and placed third in the Budapest ETU Duathlon European Championships, in the male elite are ITU number two ranked Damien Derobert of France, number 4 ranked Raphael Baugh of Australia and number 10 ranked Yuya Fukaura of Japan.

Malaysia's Shahrom Abdullah and Krishna Kumar have also confirmed their participation in this event also backed by Rudy Project, Sunkist, Fitness First, Globe, David's Salon, Vitwater, Gatorade, Asian Center for Insulation Phils.

Derobert best showing this year was a second place finish in the World Duathlon held in Concord, Connecticut, USA while Baugh is a veteran of the Asian Duathlon Championship which was held in Clark where he finished second to Ryan Mendoza.

Sawada meanwhile looms as the top female competitor as she topped the Mekong River race last March aside from being a 12th place finisher in the World Duathlon Championships.

Sawada's compatriot Erika Inoue is also competing in the race to be held at the 10k run, 40-k bike and 5-k run distance in a new course at the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center.

Philippines will be bannered by the defending Philippine International Duathlon Open Champions Neil Catiil and Monica Torres. Other noted bets from the host country includes Robeno Javier, August Benedicto and George Vilog in the male and Lea Coline Langit and Mirasol Abad in the female class.

Japan's Jun Tanaka, Masaaki Kurihara and Taiki Tsuji will challenge the country's top Under 23 elite led by Carlo Pedregosa, Rowel Odonio and Brian Borling while Kim Mangrobang will anchor the host country's campaign in the U-23 female elite.

Johannah Pe Benito who claimed her first medal, a bronze, in international event during the Hong Kong ITU Premium Race and Cagayan de Oro prized find Philip Jurolan will carry the cudgels for Philippines in the Junior Female and Male elite.

China, Mongolia, Iran, Chinese Taipei, Hong Kong China, Singapore and Indonesia are also expected to participate in the ITU technical workshop held in consonance with the second big event by TRAP with SBMA. The first major event was the Subic Bay International Marathon held last May. (Trap Online News)

Prestigious cycling competition set on April 2010 in Subic Bay (Stage 3)

rhonb1@gmail.com (RhonB (aka Pinkoy)) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 05:20:00 +0000

Le Tour De Filipinas: U.C.I. okays 2010 Padyak Pinoy Tour as part of Asian Continental Circuit

THE Philippines makes an emphatic—and perhaps even dramatic—return to the world cycling map with the staging of the 2010 Padyak Pinoy Tour of the Philippines, a four-stage road cycling competition that would pit the country’s cream of the crop against foreign rivals not only from Asia but also from Europe.

The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), through its president Pat McQuaid, has approved the request of Padyak Pinoy organizer Dynamic Outsource Solutions Inc. (Dos-1) for the 2010 Tour of the Philippines which will be staged from April 17 to 20, 2010.

Dos-1 president and Padyak Pinoy chairman Gary Cayton said the event will be aptly called the “Le Tour de Filipinas.”

This marks the first time in 12 years that the Philippines would be included on the UCI calendar on the Asian Continental Circuit. The last time the UCI sanctioned and calendared a local multistage race was from 1996 to 1998 when the Tour was then known as the Marlboro Tour.

Bert Lina, the immediate past president of the national federation of cycling, PhilCycling, and whose Lina Group of Cos. has Dos-1 as one of its growing number of companies, was elated with UCI’s inclusion of the race on its official calendar.

“This proves the trust and confidence the UCI has on the Philippines, something which Filipino cyclists, particularly past Tour champions, have impressed on the world governing body for the sport, particularly on its president, Mr. Pat McQuaid,” said Lina, chairman emeritus of the UCI-recognized PhilCycling, headed by Tagaytay City Mayor Abraham Tolentino. “This also serves as a boost to the tourism industry in the country while it effectively raises the bar of cycling sports in the local arena.”

“This is a major breakthrough for Philippine cycling,” said Cayton, adding, “this as a historical rebirth of sorts, considering that it has been 12 long years since the UCI held a sanctioned race in the Philippines. This development finally brings our country back on the world cycling map.”

Tolentino said: “The UCI decision is a clear testimony in the capability of the Philippines to host an international event and in the Filipino cyclists’ readiness to face foreign counterparts on Philippines soil.”

The four-stage Tour of the Philippines would start on April 17 with the Tagaytay-Tagaytay massed start race, followed by a team time-trial competition in the second stage on Roxas Boulevard and the Diosdado Macapagal Avenue in Manila. Stage three will also be a massed start from Quezon City to Subic (via the Nlex and SCTEx) race, while the final stage four will be an out-and-back competition in Subic. At least five foreign teams are expected to take part in the Le Tour de Filipinas.

The 2010 Tour of the Philippines, details of which will be posted on www.padyakpinoy.com, is actually the highlight of the 2010 Padyak Pinoy, which will consist of 21 stages spread over 25 days and which would kick off in Davao City, pierce through the heart of Mindanao before reaching Leyte and Samar, trace its way up north via Bicol, before traversing Cagayan Valley on its way to Ilocos where the cyclists prepare to climb the dreaded roads leading to the final stage in Baguio City. (Business Mirror)

Koreans still top Subic investors

rhonb1@gmail.com (RhonB (aka Pinkoy)) — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 16:07:00 +0000

Korean businessmen remain the top investors inside this premier Freeport as more than 19 Korean companies poured in some $493,374.39 or almost P24 million in committed investments just for the third quarter of 2009.

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Administrator Armand Arreza said, “We are pleased to tell you that the number of Korean investors have significantly grown and that our local investors are just behind them.”

“With the current boom of Korean companies investing here, our local businesses and entrepreneurs have seized the opportunity to gain from the momentum since most of the foreign investors here buy locally made raw materials instead of importing them from their country,” Arreza added.

This year, the Koreans are pouring a total of $54.159 million in committed investments (equity) even before the end of the year.

On the other hand, local investors have increased as they invested a total of $51.56 million, while some 107 projects from local investors were approved by the SBMA board.

The third quarter alone yielded some $17.6 million worth of investments from 50 projects as 37 of them are 100% Filipino while the other 13 are mostly Filipino investors with small foreign equities.

“The increase of Filipino investors here have significantly improved since last year mainly because foreign companies who send their expats here made Subic Freeport their second home,” Arreza said.

“Most of the local companies who invested here are banking on the possible rise in the tourism trend of the Freeport, especially during the summer and Christmas season,” Arreza added.

Currently, Hanjin Heavy Industries and Construction Co. (HHIC) remains the biggest investor in the Freeport with a whopping $1.684 billion while Ocean 9 PhilKor, Inc. invests some $52.4 million and Hanafil Golf and Tour, Inc. (Hanafil) invests around $48 million. Korean investors fund these companies. (Jonas Reyes, Manila Bulletin)

Pacific Pearl Airways starts Subic flights

rhonb1@gmail.com (RhonB (aka Pinkoy)) — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 15:56:00 +0000

A low-cost airline which has established its base of operations here has announced the start of its $10-million project to fly chartered planes to various tourist destinations in the country and abroad.

Pacific Pearl Airways (PPA), a private airline established in 2006, said it will begin flying out of the Subic Bay International Airport (SBIA) in December this year.

Airline president Kristoffer Jimenez, who signed the firm’s business contract with the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) last week, said PPA will initially field two advanced Boeing 737-200 jets for international flights and some turboprop aircraft for local flights.

Jimenez said local destinations will initially be to popular tourism spots like Boracay, Bohol, Cebu and Davao. But as PPA begins to establish its presence in the local airline industry, the company will expand its local flight destinations.

According to the airline official, the Subic Bay Free Port has a “very strategic location.”

“A lot of tourists come here, foreigners and locals alike. It is also a booming place in terms of businesses,” Jimenez added, ticking off the advantages of locating in Subic.

To attract its potential market, Jimenez said PPA “will be offering competitive rates without sacrificing quality service costs,” an advantage he said was made possible by tax incentives and other perks offered by the SBMA.

He added that his company also intends to “eliminate stop-over hassles” with direct flights, thereby significantly cutting travel lag time.

This would allow Pacific Pearl passengers to gain more savings and more quality holidays, said Jimenez.

Meanwhile, SBMA Administrator Armand Arreza said during the contract-signing ceremonies that PPA’s $10-million investment pledge is “proof of Subic Bay’s economic resiliency.”

“What we have witnessed now proves that there’s still life after FedEx,” said Arreza, adding that the SBMA has been trying to attract more locators to the SBIA.

FedEx, the US courier giant that used SBIA as its Asia-Pacific hub since 1998, transferred its hub operations to China in February, bowing to realities of the expanding Chinese market.

Arreza, however, pointed out that because of its international airport, “Subic can host just about any kind of air-transport requirements.”

Arreza cited that the SBIA’s cargo-sorting capability has its edge over other airports in the country today. (Henry Empeño, Business Mirror)

PLDT unit granted reprieve for Subic zone

rhonb1@gmail.com (RhonB (aka Pinkoy)) — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 15:46:00 +0000

THE Supreme Court has remanded to the trial court the issue of whether the Subic Telecommunications Co. Inc (Subictel), a wholly owned subsidiary of the Philippine Long Distance Telecommunications Co. Inc., has the right to exclusively provide telco services inside the Subic Bay Freeport Zone.

In a 17-page decision penned by Associate Justice Presbitero Velasco Jr., the Court’s Third Division reversed and set aside the ruling of the Court of Appeals (CA) issued on April 4, 2008 which upheld the resolution of the Regional Trial Court (RTC) of Olongapo City dismissing Subictel’s complaint for “specific performance with prayers for temporary restraining order and preliminary injunction” against Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority and Innove Communications Inc., a subsidiary telecommunications of Globe Telecom.

The appellate court agreed with the Olongapo RTC in junking the complaint filed by Subictel on the ground of “litis pendentia” or pending suit and forum shopping in its decision issued on June 30, 2006.

It held that the parties’ issues raised as well as the relief being sought by Subictel in the administrative case it filed with the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) are the same with the civil case it filed before the lower court.

The High Tribunal, however, said both the CA and the trial court erred in issuing the ruling, thus, directed the RTC, Branch 74 in Olongapo City to continue with the proceedings of the civil case filed by Subictel and resolve it with dispatch.

“In ruling on the presence of litis pendentia, both the trial and appellate courts, however, overlooked the fact that there is more determining the identity of the causes of action than an identity of the documentary evidence presented by Subictel. But the more fundamental question to consider is whether or not the cause of action in the second case existed at the time the filing of the first case,” the SC stressed.

Concurring with the ruling were Associate Justices Antonio Carpio, Minita Chico-Nazario, Antonio Eduardo Nachura and Diosdado Peralta.

In the administrative case, the SC noted, Subictel sought the reconsideration of SBMA’s order giving Innove a provisional permit to operate international and leased lines services as well as local exchange and toll services.

SBMA was not a party to the case but was the quasi-judicial body hearing the Innove’s application for Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN), while Subictel intervened in said case as oppositor to Innove’s application.

But in the civil case filed before the Olongapo RTC, SBMA was the principal party while Innove was impleaded for having been granted a temporary franchise by SBMA.

“Thus, as between the administrative case and the civil case, there was no identity of parties,” the Court stressed.

The SC also held that the relief being sought by Subictel in the administrative case was different from the one prayed for in the civil case.

The remedies sought in administrative case, according to the SC, hinge on the acceptance by SBMA of Innove’s application for CPCN and the consequent proceedings on the matter while the civil case was triggered by the denial by SBMA of Subictel’s notices to exercise the renewal of its alleged exclusivity rights under the joint venture agreement.

“From the foregoing distinction, it is clear that there is, as between the two actions, no identity of rights asserted and relief prayed for; and the facts whence the reliefs are sought are different,” the Court explained.

Subictel anchored its claim for exclusive privilege to operate telecommunication services inside the Subic Freeport on the joint venture agreement (JVA) it signed with the SBMA on June 29, 1994 which is valid for 25 years and renewable for another 25 years.

The JVA was inked following the withdrawal of the US military forces in Subic in the aftermath of Mount Pinatubo eruption in 1991.

The agreement further provides that for a period of 10 years, the SBMA would not allow third parties to engage in any activity within the freeport zone, which could impair Subictel’s operation. It likewise gave Subictel the option to renew its exclusivity privilege for three-year periods.

On April 22, 2004, Subictel notified SBMA that it was exercising its option to renew its exclusivity privilege under the JVA for another five years.

Subictel, however, learned that SBMA had started accepting applications for third parties for CPCN to provide international and leased line services and local and toll services.

Despite its opposition, SBMA did not recognize Subictel’s option to renew its exclusive privilege and gave Innove provisional authority to compete with Subictel.

The SBMA board asserted that it was just exercising its power to regulate public utilities within the Freeport Zone pursuant to Republic Act 7227 or the Bases Conversion Development Act of 1992.

Innove, on the other hand, claimed that all authorities to operate public utilities are, by constitutional mandate, nonexclusive.

It added that Subictel failed to prove that its entry into the zone would cause grave and irreparable damage. (Joel R. San Juan, Mirror Reporter)

BCDA bids out SCTEX

rhonb1@gmail.com (RhonB (aka Pinkoy)) — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 03:35:00 +0000

The Bases Conversion and Development Authority is seeking a private sector partner for the privatization of the Subic-Clark-Tarlac expressway (SCTEX), hoping to raise the equivalent of P38.9 billion from the exercise.

The agency made available yesterday the terms of reference of the bidding. A pre-bid conference is scheduled on November 10.

Victor Zablan, chairperson of BCDA’s asset disposition program committee, said in a bidding announcement that the private sector partner will be in charge of the management, operations, and maintenance of SCTEX.

It will also be responsible for the operational funding requirements for SCTEX, including insurance and the provision for the following services: management; collection; traffic safety and security management; toll road maintenance, including greenery and landscaping, and all necessary support services.

In return, the private sector partner will pay BCDA a semi-annual lease/concession fee amounting to the peso equivalent of the yen-denominated loan from the Japan Bank for International Cooperation as well as financing charge of the Department of Finance totaling P38.9 billion throughout the 33.5 years of life of the concession.

The fee is payable to BCDA 10 days prior to its due dates, or 20 percent of the audited gross toll revenues whichever is higher.

JBIC loaned P26 billion to bankroll the project.

In an earlier interview, Zablan said BCDA would begin paying off the loan in 2011, amounting to P950 million to P1 billion annually including interest.

He said the amount could escalate to P1.2 billion once BCDA starts drawing down from a JBIC P7 billion supplemental loan.

That supplemental loan was supposed to finance the interchanges and the cost escalation of the project.

BCDA has so far used up 95 percent of the P19 billion loan.

The 94-kilometer tollroad is not hitting the desired number of users as estimated by a study conducted by Pacific Consultants of Japan, which is 35,000 vehicles per day in the first year of operations, due to high fuel prices last year.

The average number of motorists using SCTEX is seen to more than double to 20,000 a day this year from 8,000 vehicles a day in 2008. SCTEX peaked at 18,000 to 20,000 users a day during the summer months of April and May.

The number of motorists patronizing SLEX is expected to recover in the run-up to Christmas.

Once open, two more interchanges, in Porac and in Floridablanca in Pampanga, will improve the use of SCTEX. (Malaya)

Fake Spanish-era cannons find novel purpose in Subic Bay

rhonb1@gmail.com (RhonB (aka Pinkoy)) — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 03:22:00 +0000

In a place where authentic shipwrecks abound, planting replicas of cannons, anchors and other parts of Spanish galleons on the seabed may seem an overkill.

But if professional diver Brian Homan would have his way, he would even sink in Subic Bay a full replica of a Spanish galleon for the sake of “authenticity.”

Since last year, Homan, an Australian who owns the watering hole-cum-maritime museum Vasco’s in this free port, has been making copies of bronze cannons that were once arrayed on ship decks of the mighty Spanish armada.

And the purpose of Homan’s fakes? To serve as “apartments” for crabs, fishes and other bottom dwellers in Subic Bay.

“Everybody is into artificial reef building,” Homan said in a recent interview. “But here in Subic, we’re trying to create something different—an artificial reef that would help both the environment and tourism.”

Homan’s personal project to reproduce marine artifacts stemmed from the fact that most artificial reefs consisted mostly of worn-out car tires, old vehicles and discarded appliances, like refrigerators, that, once sunk, appeared like eyesores on the seabed.

In Subic, which capitalizes on shipwrecks, coral reefs and underwater sceneries to attract tourists, the discards stuck out like the underwater thrash that they were, turning off divers.

As an alternative, Homan embarked last year on his artifacts-reproduction project with the express approval of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), making casts of authentic Spanish cannons, then molding concrete replicas to be laid out underwater.

“It’s a very noteworthy project, and it gained our endorsement because it’s so environment-friendly,” said Amethya de la Llana-Koval, head of the SBMA Ecology Center.

“Brian has come up with an imaginative solution that positively impacts our thrusts to improve marine diversity and attract more visitors, particularly divers, to Subic Bay,” Koval added.

Subic Bay has at least 18 known shipwrecks, most of them of World War II, that were scuttled to prevent enemy ships from entering the port of Subic. But easily the most popular diving attraction here is the Spanish gunboat San Quentin, which sank off Grande Island at the mouth of Subic Bay in 1898.

Homan’s replicas, which are laid out in relatively shallow waters, won’t detract from Subic’s reputation as home to authentic shipwrecks, Koval said.

Homan said the concrete replicas—hollowed and fitted out with some holes for the entry and exit of fishes and crustaceans—each took from three to four weeks to complete.

But it took at least three months for the counterfeit cannons to blend in with the other elements in their new watery environment, Homan added.

So far, Homan said, his fake artifacts had successfully delivered on their primary objective of serving as artificial reefs. A cannon that he submerged late last year had already attracted colonies of barnacles and oysters.

In this condition, he said, the counterfeit cannons and anchors looked authentic and, hence, could also improve the underwater scenery in Subic Bay. Neophyte divers can even practice wreck diving among the reproduced relics, he added.

But divers not familiar with Subic’s known shipwrecks should beware because they could easily be fooled by the reproductions.

“They’d probably think they’ve discovered a new wreck, when, in fact, it’s just one of my crab apartments,” Homan said. (Henry Empeño, Business Mirror)

In photo: BRIAN HOMAN shows a photo of a barnacle-encrusted cannon laid alongside his molded concrete replicas of the Spanish-era artifacts. The reproductions serve as artificial reefs in Subic Bay, which boasts of numerous authentic shipwrecks.

Hanjin puts expansion on hold

rhonb1@gmail.com (RhonB (aka Pinkoy)) — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 09:37:00 +0000

Hanjin Subic shipyard has put its expansion plans on hold pending new ship order. The shipyard has so 29 ship orders for delivery until 2013.

Hanjin Heavy Industries and Construction -Philippines (HHIC-Phil) has received a total of 37 ship orders since it started operation in 2006.

The good news is that there was no ship order cancellation, even as the world shipping industry was severely affected by the world economic recession.

"There has been no ship cancellation. The orders were still at 37, eight of them were already delivered, Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Administrator Armand Arreza.

But, the planned "expansion was put on hold, until new orders come in."

Hanjin is preparing for dry-dock number 7 for construction to accommodate future ship building activities.

Dry-docks 5 and 6 were included in the first phase of development worth $1.6 billion.

The second phase of the project development which involve the construction of dry-dock 7 will deliver another $1 billion in investment for Subic.

The dock no. 6 is 480-meter long 135 meter –wide and 13.5 meters deep which was completed last year. It has a bigger assembly line, and 1.7 kilometer quay wall and installation of 2 more units of ultra huge gantry crane.

Their commitment to employ about 40,000 employees would happen if the phase 2 of the project development would be completed.

The shipyard currently employs 18,000 workers.

Hanjin uses state of the art technology to ensure being at par with competitors and be able to maintain value for customers.

Hanjin’s shipyard expansion will allow the company to compete well with other major shipbuilders in Korea, such as Hyundai Heavy Industries, Samsung Heavy Industries and Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering.

The firm plans to increase the shipbuilding capacity in Subic to 450,000 tons a year from the current 220,000 tons. The shipyard in Subic is equipped with facilities that can generate annual sales of about $3.1 billion. (Genivi Facto, Malaya)

Kenyan runners rule Subic Marathon

rhonb1@gmail.com (RhonB (aka Pinkoy)) — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 15:49:00 +0000

The Kenyan juggernaut was on full display Saturday night as Vincent Chepsiror and Doreen Kitaka ruled the 2nd Smart-Subic International Marathon. Chepsisor, 29, topped the men’s side of the 42-kilometer marathon with a clocking of 2 hours, 27 minutes and 54 seconds, while the 26-year old Kitaka did the same in the women’s class at 3:01:12.

Each pocketed the top purse of $5,000 at stake in the race that started at the Subic Clark-Tarlac Expressway in Floridablanca, Pampanga late in the afternoon, and ended at night at the Remy Field inside the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority here.

The Kenyan champions showing were way below their personal bests of 2:18 (Chepsiror) and 2:45 (Kitaka), respectively, admitting being first timers in running at night hampered their performances.

“Sometimes the darkness slowed me down, but overall I am happy with the course,” Chepsiror said at the finish line.

“I have trouble seeing in some places,” said Kitaka, also the winner of last week’s Quezon City International Marathon.

“I could have run faster if the event was held in daylight. But I have no complain because the people are very nice and the place is beautiful,” added the mother of two from Nairobi.

Cecilla Wangui also of Kenya, made it a 1-2 finish in the distaff side of the well-attended event presented by Smart and co-presented by the BCDA, SCTEX, Philippine National Police, SBMA, PAGC, Rotary International, Toby’s, Runnr, Burlington Bio-Fresh, Sports Armour and Chris Sports.

Aileen Tolentino of La Salle-Dasmariñas spoiled the Kenyan party by finishing a strong third (3:29:01) and became the top local finisher in the meet. She bagged $1,000 behind the $2,500 won by Wangui.

Another Kenyan in Sarah Maiyo, finished fourth while Filipina Joanne Mangat barged into the top five with a time of 3:34:23.

Eight Kenyans made it to the top 10 of the men’s class, as 18-year-old Willy Kipkemoi Rofich finished runner-up (2:28:14) worth $2,500. (Manila Bulletin)

Subic International Marathon races off on Saturday (program of activities attached)

rhonb1@gmail.com (RhonB (aka Pinkoy)) — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 15:40:00 +0000

The much-awaited 2nd Smart-Subic International Marathon (SIM) races off at 4 p.m. Saturday at the newly built Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEx).

The 42.1-mile race that will feature world-class Kenyan runners will start at the Floridablanca, Pampanga exit and ends at the Remy Field inside SBMA Freeport Zone in Olongapo City.

A 3-, 5-, and 10-kilometer side event races will also take place on Sunday.

A total of P1.6 million in cash prizes will be given to the top three finishers in both the men’s and women’s divisions.

A total of 10,000 local and foreign runners are expected to join this big marathon event where the top ten finishers in the male division and the top three female runners will receive cash prizes. The champion goes home with $5,000, $2,500 for the runner-up and $1,000 for the 3rd placer.

Last year, Kenyan Nelson Kirwa Rotich won the main event while Filipino bet Eduardro Buenavista, who will be skipping this year’s edition to prepare for the 25th Laos Southeast Asian Games in December, finished second. (GMANews.TV)

PROGRAMME OF ACTIVITIES

DAY 1: October 23, 2009; Friday

Event: SUNSET MILE RUN (Media and Celebrity Run)
4:30 PM Assembly Time
5:30 PM Fire-Off
8:00 PM Fellowship

DAY 2: October 24, 2009; Saturday

Event: 42K: A full-marathon race with a starting point at the SCTEx Floridablanca, Pampanga Toll and finish line at the Remy Field, Subic
1:00 PM Assembly time for 42K Runners at Remy Field for shuttling
4:30 PM Fire-off for 42K Runners
7:30 PM After Run Party

Event: NIKE HUMAN RACE 10K
3:00 PM Assembly time (Start / Finish : Remy Field)
4:30 PM Fire-off for the Nike Human Race 10K Runners
7:30 PM After Run Party

DAY 3: October 25, 2009; Sunday

Event: 21K: A half-marathon race billed as “Achievement Run for our Uniformed Men”
5:00 AM Assembly time for 21K Runners
5:30 AM Fire-off for 21K Runners

Event: 10K: A 10-kilometer run with starting point and finish line at the Remy Field, Subic
5K: A 5-kilometer run with starting point and finish line at the Remy Field, Subic
3K: A 3-kilometer run billed as “Humanitarian Race” and will be open to our handicapped runners
5:30 AM Assembly time for 3K/5K/10K Runners
6:00 AM Fire-off for 3K/5K/10K Runners

9:30 AM Awarding Ceremony

Hanafil starts $5-M renovation of Subic golf course

rhonb1@gmail.com (RhonB (aka Pinkoy)) — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 07:31:00 +0000

In a simple “dirt pushing” ceremony, Subic golf course operator Hanafil Golf and Tour Inc. began on Wednesday a one-year renovation program designed to upgrade the fairways here to world-class standards and bring in more foreign tourists next year.

Leading the ceremony on Wednesday night at Subic’s Binictican area was Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) administrator Armand Arreza, SBMA chairman Feliciano Salonga, Hanafil chairman Jay Kim, Hanafil president Benjamin John Defensor III, and Netforce International president Bong Arguelles.

Arreza, who drove a bulldozer at the project site to kick off the dirt pushing rites, described the event as “a momentous occasion” to mark the reconstruction of the prized Subic facility.

“We want to upgrade the golf course here, put it at par with international standards, and place it at the forefront of SBMA’s effort to further enhance the tourism market in Subic,” Arreza said.

“We believe that Subic Golf has proven its capability to bring in more tourists to Subic after its highly-successful junket flight program that brought in more than 1,800 Koreans to play golf in the freeport,” he added.

Arreza also said that the renovation of the Subic golf course will prepare local tourism establishments “for more opportunities coming their way.”

According to Defensor, the $5-million renovation program to be implemented in a year is just part of the overall $48-million development package that Hanafil intends to implement in Subic.

Reiterating Hanafil’s commitment to the SBMA to fulfill its development plans, Defensor said more projects would soon follow after the renovation.

“We are committed. In the bigger picture of things, the golf course will only be one of the attractions that we are going to build,” Defensor said.

Defensor said that Hanafil, which is now one of the largest companies in Subic in terms of committed investment, has contracted out the renovation work to Netforce International, the country's number one golf course builder and designer.

“We chose Netforce, a company which has an extensive experience in building golf courses, because we would also like to support the economy by hiring Filipino companies like Netforce,” Defensor added.

Netforce officials, meanwhile, revealed that in renovating the whole golf course, the company would reshape the existing greens, using paspaplum grass for the greens and Tifton 419 for the fairways. Completion is scheduled for November 2010.

Defensor said the renovation is timed to be completed “just when it starts getting cold in the northern countries.”

Hanafil, which mainly targets golfers from South Korea, will resume its junket flight program immediately after the golf course is fully renovated.

Defensor said the firm’s first junket flight program with Jeju Airlines has proven to be a success, with about 1,800 Koreans participating in three-day golfing holidays organized by Hanafil.

Defensor also said that during the renovation period, the whole 18-hole golf course would be closed “so that we could fully reconstruct the whole area.”

He added that the company is coordinating with Netforce and other construction firms to ensure that golf course employees who would have to be laid off during the renovation stage, could be absorbed by the contractors.

Hanafil is a Philippine corporation registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission, and is backed by Hanatour, the biggest tour company in South Korea. (SBMA Corporate Communications)

PHOTOS:
[1] SBMA chairman Feliciano Salonga (second from right) and SBMA Administrator Armand Arreza (third from right) join Hanafil officials in launching the $5-million renovation program for the Subic golf course. Also in photo are (from right): Hanafil chairman Jay Kim, Hanafil president Benjamin John Defensor III, SBMA senior deputy administrator for support services Ramon Agregado, SBMA deputy administrator for business development Raul Marcelo, and Netforce president Bong Arguelles.

[2] SBMA administrator Armand Arreza drives a bulldozer during the “dirt pushing” ceremony to start the $5-million renovation program of the Subic Bay golf course.

No problem with venue transfer to Subic, says AdCon chief

rhonb1@gmail.com (RhonB (aka Pinkoy)) — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 07:23:00 +0000

MANILA - Even with just a month left before the big day, organizers of the 21st Philippine Advertising Congress (PAC) are confident that the transfer of the event venue from Baguio City to Subic Bay Freeport would be smooth.

“Tuloy na tuloy ang AdCon (The Advertising Congress will definitely push through),” said Margot Torres, overall chair of the 21st PAC, during a recent briefing at the office of the Philippine Advertising Board (AdBoard) in Makati.

“We are fortunate that Subic is available,” Torres added, noting that the transition from Baguio to Subic would not be difficult because Subic officials and volunteers “had learned quickly” from hosting the 20th PAC in 2007.

Torres also said the organizing committee was “profusely thankful” to Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) administrator Armand Arreza for providing them with an alternative venue.

The PAC, which is scheduled on November 18-21, had to be moved from Baguio due to the badly typhoon-damaged roads leading to the original congress venue.

“The problem lies not with Baguio City itself, but the roads leading to it,” Torres explained, saying that the committee’s decision was made with the delegates’ safety in mind.

She added that the alternative route to Baguio, as proposed by the National Disaster Coordinating Council (NDCC), would take nine hours to traverse.

The officials of Camp John Hay, where the event was originally set, understand the AdBoard’s position, Torres added.

She also said that media networks, advertisers and sponsors of the 21st PAC, a biennial event which is considered the advertising industry’s equivalent to the “Oscars,” had confirmed their participation and support upon learning that the alternative venue would be Subic.

“The venue is tailor-fit to our needs,” Torres said, referring to the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center (SBECC) that was purposely refurbished in 2007 to host some 5,000 PAC delegates two years ago.

Meanwhile, Torres said that SBMA Administrator Arreza had given the assurance that Subic’s hotels could now accommodate more than 3,000 delegates.

Torres added that despite the venue transfer, only minor changes would be made to the congress program itself.

From the supposed breakout groups, plenary sessions will be held instead, as the SBECC’s Plenary Hall 1 can seat some 3,500 people.

The congress theme and topics for discussion likewise would remain unchanged, she said, although a slant was introduced to make the event more meaningful and relevant.

Torres added that they will soon launch the AdCon’s “Brand Aid” campaign, which will center on what messages from the advertising industry will be appropriate, especially at times when the Filipino nation is reeling from disasters, like the recent typhoons.

She also revealed that one reason why the PAC could not be postponed was that the industry needed to convene at the soonest time possible to immediately execute plans of action to help flood and typhoon victims.

Torres said Ad Congress organizers had pledged part of the proceeds from the 21st PAC to the Red Cross and other beneficiaries still to be identified by the AdBoard.

“It was even proposed that proceeds from ticket sales in the event’s highlight — the Araw Awards — could be given to the flood victims,” Torres said.

AdBoard representatives will meet with SBMA officials on Friday afternoon to discuss details of the Advertising Congress here. (SBMA Corporate Communications)

PHOTO: The Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center (SBECC) will be the venue of the 21st Philippine Advertising Congress (PAC) on November 18-21. Subic also hosted the 20th PAC in 2007.

SBMA employees’ co-op lent out P2-M in two years

rhonb1@gmail.com (RhonB (aka Pinkoy)) — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 07:19:00 +0000

A cooperative formed by employees of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) has already released more than P2 million in loans — proof of a vibrant savings and investment scheme that has benefited more than 400 members in just two years.

Officials of the SBMA Employees Welfare Multi-Purpose Cooperative (SEWMPC) said the cooperative has also inaugurated its own office barely two years after its launching in October 2007.

“It can be declared to all that there is now a respectable cooperative within the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, as we now have an actual office, a manifestation of our members’ strong confidence,” said SEWMPC chairman Severo Pastor Jr.

“We have already extended at least P2 million in loans to some 400 members who are in need of financial support, and another P200,000 is ready for releasing,” Pastor also said.

He added that with its new, fully-furnished office located at the SBMA gym complex, the cooperative can better reach out to SBMA employees working in various areas of the Freeport.

SEWMPC was organized in 2006 with full support and encouragement from SBMA chairman Feliciano Salonga and SBMA administrator Armand Arreza.

Aimed at uplifting the living conditions of SBMA employees, the cooperative has helped its members increase their income and savings through investments, as well as greater productivity.

Pastor, who is also manager of the SBMA Labor Department, said the creation of the SEWMPC was likewise a direct answer to the growing operation of local loan sharks “who milked our fellow employees with unconscionable interest rates.”

Today the SEWMPC has about P2.5 million in assets, mostly sourced from members of the board who voluntarily lent their money for the operation of the cooperative.

In his message during the inauguration of the cooperative’s new office, SBMA Chairman Salonga said the SEWMPC has proven to be “a reliable lifesaver in these times of global recession and calamities.”

“Through our cooperative, we can make our life a bit easier,” Salonga said. “And we are looking forward to the time when we won’t need it anymore, to the time when we have all the chance to buy anything we need.”

The new office, according to Pastor, will be registered with the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA), a step toward becoming part of a federation of cooperatives within Central Luzon.

On the same occasion, Zambales CDA officer Edmund Engao swore into office the elected leaders of the cooperative. These are SEWMPC chairman Pastor, vice chairman Lolita Mallari, treasurer Evelyn Crescini, and secretary Dorotea Varela.

Engao also inducted into office the cooperative’s board members: Rodolfo Kalaquian, chairman of the audit committee; Magdaleno Motas, Paulita Yee, Antonietta Sanqui, Marco Estabillo, Rodel Mayor, Emerlinda Delos Reyes, and Rebecca Ventura. (SBMA Corporate Communications)

PHOTO: MOVING FORWARD: SBMA Chairman Feliciano Salonga (left) inaugurates the new office of the SBMA Employees Welfare Multi-Purpose Cooperative, which has released more than P2-million in loans to its members.

Subic taekwondo team retains title in 2nd Chairman’s Cup

rhonb1@gmail.com (RhonB (aka Pinkoy)) — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 07:15:00 +0000

About 150 taekwondo enthusiasts from the Central Luzon region flocked to this free port recently in a bid to conquer titles in the 2nd Chairman’s Cup Invitational Taekwondo Tournament, an annual event sanctioned by the Philippine Taekwondo Association (PTA).

After the whole-day competition held at the Subic Gymnasium here, Subic-based Philko Taekwondo Training Center was declared champion after garnering 287 total group points. The team successfully defended their 2008 title against three other teams.

Philko was way ahead second placer Korean Grace Taekwondo, a team from Angeles City in Pampanga, which accumulated a total of 58 points, while the Subic-based Mondriaan Aura College Taekwondo Jins trailed with 50 points, and Precious Child Montessori of Zambales with 27 points.

The winners received trophies and certificates of recognition in group and individual categories.

The 2nd Chairman’s Cup Invitational Tournament was organized by Mondriaan Aura College, in partnership with the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) and Hallelujah Taekwondo Ministry (HTM), a full-gospel group from South Korea that reaches out to the youth through sports.

In the event’s opening ceremony, SBMA Chairman Feliciano Salonga assured the various taekwondo associations gathered for the tournament that SBMA will continue to put prime importance to sports and youth development, in line with its sports tourism thrust.

“The SBMA will continue to provide avenues for sports where local athletes can hone their skills” said Salonga, citing this free port’s sports-conducive environment and modern sports facilities.

Salonga also lauded the efforts of Aura College and HTM for finding a way to strengthen Filipino-Korean ties, and promoting youth welfare through sports.

Rev. Lee Joo Hyung, who headed the Korean delegation of about 15 athletes, said that by donating taekwondo gears and equipment to Aura College, which is propagating the sport locally, the HTM “is merely sharing the blessings that we have.”

Lee said the HTM, which was organized in Korea in 1988, has been conducting similar tournaments in Manila for the past eight years.

He said they decided to bring taekwondo competitions to Subic since an HTM missions base was nearby, and because the Subic Bay Freeport has available facilities.

Meanwhile, Aura College president Edgar Geniza described the event as “a celebration of two cultures glorifying one God through sports.”

“This tournament will go on as long as friendship between the Philippines and Korea continues,” said Geniza. (SBMA Corporate Communications)

PHOTO: TAEKWONDO KIDS: Participants in the 2nd Chairman’s Cup Invitational Taekwondo Tournament held at the Subic Bay Freeport await instructions prior to group and individual competitions.

ALI leases 7.5-ha Subic property for integrated master-planned development

rhonb1@gmail.com (RhonB (aka Pinkoy)) — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 03:39:00 +0000

MANILA, Philippines - Real estate developer Ayala Land Inc. (ALI) and Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) signed last Oct. 16 a 50-year lease agreement for a 7.5-hectare property along Rizal Highway within the Subic Bay Freeport Zone.

Given Ayala Land’s unmatched experience and proven track record of world-class real estate projects, an integrated master-planned development which is envisioned to include a shopping mall, Business Process Outsourcing office building, and hotel will proudly rise at Subic’s Central Business District.

The proposed mall shall offer basic conveniences that will address the everyday needs of Subic and Olongapo, as well as unique concepts that will serve not only the immediate communities but also the tourists and transients.

ALI’s development will be a catalyst for growth in the Subic-Olongapo corridor and will be a major mixed use project in the Subic Freeport Zone that is well-planned, integrated and environmentally balanced.

With a total investment of approximately P3 billion including investments generated from the project’s multiplier-effect from retail, office and hotel locators, the project is expected to create about 10,000 new jobs from construction phase to operations. (Philippine Star)

Subic ready for Ad Congress

rhonb1@gmail.com (RhonB (aka Pinkoy)) — Sun, 18 Oct 2009 09:27:00 +0000

After organizers of the 21st Philippine Advertising Congress pulled out of Baguio City due to safety concerns following the damage wrought by a series of typhoons in Northern Luzon, officials in this free port said Subic was more than ready to host the event.

"We're ready to accommodate them. Already we have the venue and hotel rooms are available," said Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority Administrator Armand Arreza.

But Arreza said officials of the SBMA and the Advertising Board (AdBoard) have yet to finalize details of the congress' shift in venue to this free port, which hosted the biennial convention in 2007 and 1993.

"It is not final yet, although we are ready for them if they choose this venue.… The decision still lies with the AdBoard. I'm certain that they are looking for other venues. No agreement is in place yet," he said.

The congress is the biggest event that brings together the country's top corporations and advertisers and representatives and officials of media and advertising firms.

The SBMA, in preparation for the 2007 congress, built a convention facility that has a 2,456-square meter plenary hall and an exhibit area covering about 10,000 square meters.

Arreza said the SBMA has started contingency planning with representatives of the AdBoard.

Asked about the logistical challenge that the transfer of the venue might entail, Olongapo Councilor Gina Perez, chair of the city council's tourism committee, said the city has enough time to prepare for the event scheduled in November.

She said hotels and restaurants in Subic and Olongapo can easily reserve rooms for delegates.

"Like before, they are welcome here. We will make sure that if they choose us; we will be ready for their requirements," Perez said.(Robert Gonzaga, PDI Central Luzon Desk)

Storm's Aftermath: 21st Ad Congress moved to Subic

rhonb1@gmail.com (RhonB (aka Pinkoy)) — Sat, 17 Oct 2009 09:15:00 +0000

MANILA, Philippines — The trail of destruction across northern Luzon left by Tropical Storms “Ondoy” (international codename: Ketsana) and “Pepeng” (Parma) has forced the Advertising Board of the Philippines (AdBoard) to hold the 21st Philippine Advertising Congress (PAC) closer to Metro Manila instead of Baguio as originally planned.

“It is with reluctance that we withdraw from Baguio, as the city has been most supportive and generous to the 21st PAC from the planning stages right until this moment when preparations are near completion,” the PAC said on its website.

Instead, the ad congress scheduled on Nov. 18-21 will take place in Subic.

“We have never doubted Baguio’s resilience nor its readiness to accommodate the 21st PAC in spite of the disaster. But the further strain thousands of delegates and participants would subject the already weakened northern Luzon infrastructure would put their safety and that of the local people’s at risk,” the PAC said.

Despite the short notice and various requirements, Subic authorities have readily agreed to host the 21st PAC.

Dedicated to victims

The sufferings of the victims of Ondoy and Pepeng are not lost on the advertising industry.

“The 21st PAC is the best time for the industry to come together and reflect on ways to be of service to the typhoons’ victims and to respond to the call of nation rebuilding. Our economy must not come to a standstill. We must help drive the local economy back on its feet,” the PAC said.

“We dedicate the 21st PAC to the victims of the northern Luzon calamity. Part of our proceeds will be donated to the Red Cross for rehabilitation efforts in northern Luzon. This ad congress has heart and a cause. We enjoin all members of the industry to be an active part of this endeavor,” it added. (Philippine Daily Inquirer)

Beach Clean-up, after the storm

rhonb1@gmail.com (RhonB (aka Pinkoy)) — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 13:49:00 +0000

AFTER THE STORM: Employees of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority, assisted by students and workers from schools and investor-companies in the Subic Bay Freeport, undertake the cleanup of Subic’s famed waterfront after successive typhoons washed up debris onshore.

P20-M Subic IT facility offers ‘revolutionary’ business ideas

rhonb1@gmail.com (RhonB (aka Pinkoy)) — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 01:05:00 +0000

Had it crossed anyone’s mind 10 years ago that coffee shops and restaurants today would serve “wi-fi” on their menu to boost sales?

This kind of foresight in emerging and revolutionary trade trends is now available to businesses in this free port with the opening of the P20-million innovation Laboratory (Innolab) of the Subic Telecommunications Company Inc. (Subictel), a company owned by the Philippine Long Distance Telephone Corp. (PLDT).

Subictel launched its new facility last Wednesday at its office near Subic’s historical landmark, the Spanish Gate. Among those who witnessed the event were Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) administrator Armand Arreza, Olongapo City mayor James Gordon, PLDT executives and staff, members of the Subic Bay Chamber of Commerce, and representatives of business locators here.

Arreza said that the PLDT Innolab will showcase Subic’s capabilities in terms of IT support, and will eventually determine to some extent direction taken by the IT sector in this free port.

“PLDT’s Innolab marks a new foundation for Subic Bay’s emergence in the knowledge economy,” said Arreza, who expressed optimism that this free port’s business process outsourcing (BPO) potentials will soon be maximized.

“With PLDT as partner, the Subic Bay Freeport can now shift from labor-intensive industries to knowledge-based industries, guided by the emerging trends in the IT sector,” Arreza added.

According to PLDT first vice-president Nerissa Ramos, the PLDT Innolab features “proofs of concept” of breakthrough technologies that are being offered by PLDT.

“Soon, everyone will realize that Subic’s IT capabilities is as good as what is offered in Manila, Cebu, Clark and other renowned BPO destinations in the country,” Ramos said.

According to PLDT, it is now offering various “cutting edge” IT solutions in the fields of hotel and restaurant management, manufacturing, retailing, franchising, real estate, and BPO.

“The Internet is playing a huge role in today’s management of businesses. With PLDT solutions, people can monitor and make business directions even from afar, and even generate cost-savings, as they employ these technologies that streamline business processes,” Ramos said.

For example, she said people can try out the video conferencing studio that has been set up in the Innolab. This has a “dirty kitchen” where they can simulate their clients’ technology and demonstrate how to hook it up with PLDT’s IT solutions.

“They can see for themselves the results immediately in the Innolab,” Ramos explained.

At the same time Ramos expressed hope that through PLDT’s Innolab, the BPO industry in Subic Bay would flourish.

She said that Subic Bay can play a major role in the outsourcing industry as this former US military base is a major connector to PLDT’s fiber optics network.

Ramos also said they will soon partner with universities and colleges within the Subic Freeport to bridge the academe-industry mismatch in terms of information technology.

“Schools can make PLDT’s Innolab a destination for their field trips. We also propose tie-ups with tertiary schools so the academe will get to have hands-on update on the current gadgets, systems, and trends in the IT sector,” she said.

Soon, Ramos said, everyone will realize that the country is not lagging behind, adding that the Philippine’s telecommunications infrastructure and road networks “are a lot better compared to India,” which is considered a prime destination in the global BPO scene.

The PLDT’s Subictel Innolab is the fifth such facility in the country. The first one was launched in Manila in 2003, and subsequently in Cebu, Clark, and Davao. (SBMA Corporate Communications)

PHOTO: SBMA Administrator Armand Arreza (second from right) and Olongapo Mayor James Gordon Jr. join executives of PLDT and Subictel in launching PLDT’s Innovation Laboratory at the Subic Bay Freeport Zone.

PLDT ‘innolabs’ target next-wave cities

rhonb1@gmail.com (RhonB (aka Pinkoy)) — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 03:12:00 +0000

Telecoms giant Philippine Long Distance Telephone Co. (PLDT) is aligning its IT outsourcing strategy with the government’s next-wave cities program.

PLDT recently opened its latest innovation lab, or “innolab”, here (in Subic) targeting the freeport’s huge shipping and related businesses.

These innolabs feature best-of-breed technologies targeted to address specific IT requirements.

PLDT First Vice President and Head of Corporate Business Group Nerisse Ramos said local industries are already looking at a “globalized” market for their products and service but they are unaware of the technological practices to enable their goals.

A recent study by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) noted that the telecoms industry will ride the global crisis as broadband services become even more relevant both for businesses and individual users.

Companies are seen to migrate requirements to cost-effective and reliable managed services pitched by telecom firms.

PLDT is looking to make this pitch even to small and medium businesses, which comprise majority of businesses in the country.

“That’s why the outsourcing model works in the Philippines because many of these companies are unable to maximize their IT investments; they spend a lot without realizing these investments,” Ramos said.

Ramos said that one of their targets is to look at other locations with a community of businesses that can use Innolab services.

“We’re following the “Next Wave Cities” project of the government if we’re going to put up Innolabs,” Ramos said.

The Next Wave Cities project is led by the Commission on Information and Communications Technology. It aims to build the necessary public works and telecommunications infrastructure in certain areas in the Philippines to entice potential investors from abroad. (Alexander Villafania, Phil. Daily Inquirer)

Here comes the roadtrain: Subic to launch cost-efficient trucking system via SCTEx

rhonb1@gmail.com (RhonB (aka Pinkoy)) — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 02:36:00 +0000

A trucking system popularly used in Argentina, Australia, Mexico, United States and Western Canada to efficiently transport bulky loads will soon be seen for the first time along the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEx).

Expected to hit the SCTEx in the fourth quarter this year, the so-called road train or “triples,” as it is known in the U.S. and Canada, will be introduced by the International Heavy Trucks Center (IHTC), a Subic-registered enterprise.

The roadtrain consists of a conventional tractor pulling not just one trailer, but two or three using a trailer truck dolly. A trailer dolly is a single-axled articulated fifth wheel that connects two or three trailers pulled by a tractor head.

IHTC said the use of the roadtrain at the SCTEx was arranged through continuous coordination with Philippine National Construction Corporation.

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) administrator Armand Arreza said that the use of trailer truck dollies via the SCTEx “will mean big savings and provide more efficient means of transporting goods between Clark and Subic.”

“We’re sure that the trailer dollies will attract not only more investors and port users in Subic and Clark Freeport zones, but also other importers and exporters from Central and Northern Luzon,” Arreza said.

He explained that the introduction of the trailer dolly would also lower freight cost because two or three more trailers can now be connected behind the main trailer.

Arthur delos Reyes, SBMA consultant for special projects and economic development, said the IHTC will initially be using two trailer dollies that are about 90-feet long each.

The trailer dollies are “very safe and road worthy,” he added.

“Being the first in the Philippines, this cost-saving mechanism is expected to encourage heavy port users in Central Luzon to use Subic, thus increasing shipments in the Freeport,” Reyes said.

Reyes also said that the new transport concept will be used only in the SCTEx, which connects the free ports of Clark and Subic, because the roads leading to the ports of Subic and Clark are wider and hardly have any traffic problem.

The truck dollies, however, cannot be used presently in the North Luzon Expressway or South Luzon Expressway, he added. (SBMA Corporate Communications)

PHOTO:
The roadtrain, a cost-efficient trucking system expected to lower freight cost, will be introduced at the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway.

Hanjin Subic gets 10 ship orders from French container firm

rhonb1@gmail.com (RhonB (aka Pinkoy)) — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 06:40:00 +0000

CMA CGM Group, the world’s third-largest container line operator, has placed ship orders to South Korean shipbuilder Hanjin for 10 ships for Hanjin Heavy Industries and Construction -Philippines (HHIC-Phil) in Subic.

CMA CGM has a total of 51 ships ordered from various South Korean shipyards for the 2009-2012 period.

CMA CGM is a leading client of South Korean yards and Hanjin has secured orders which will be constructed by its affiliate yard in the Philippines.

It currently operates 370 ships in 200 shipping lines around the world.

The firm is undergoing debt restructuring effort and has reached agreement on the establishment of a committee comprised of French, European and international banks including certain major financial institutions from Asia and the Republic of Korea.

The firm is addressing short and medium term financing requirements with a view of strengthening the capital structure to ensure its ongoing development.

In 2008, it moved the equivalent of 8.9 million 20-foot container units, generating revenue estimated at $15.1 billion.

Compared with the second half of 2008, the first half of 2009 saw record decreases in freight rates and shipment volumes on all main shipping lines around the world.

However, the level of activity began to improve again during the third quarter of this year and, so far this recovery is sustained in the fourth quarter.

The forecasted load factors and freight rates for the beginning of 2010 suggest a possible continuation of these recent positive trends.

CMA CGM will continue with the initiatives started during the course of 2009.

CMA CGM is aiming to reach an all-encompassing agreement with the help of the committee by the middle of November.

HHIC-Phil on the other hand said the continued construction of high value ships only show its positive performance amidst the economic meltdown.

The Subic Shipyard, one of the world’s Top 10 largest shipyards, is equipped with high technology shipbuilding facilities that include mega docks and goliath cranes that are used to build high technology, high value added ships.

At present, the Subic shipyard focuses on mega and large container carriers of 12,800 TEU or more, as well as tankers and bulk carriers and it no longer import ship components from Korea, as it embarks on building its own.

Lynette Dela Cruz, Seaport Department Strategic Planning Head of Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) said Hanjin Subic delivered the 5th vessel to an Egyptian firm in August. (Genivi Facto, Malaya)

Korean firm to complete Subic condo in ’10

rhonb1@gmail.com (RhonB (aka Pinkoy)) — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 06:36:00 +0000

Korean leisure property developer KT Global announced yesterday that the first high-rise condominiums to be constructed here would soon be completed following over $135 million in investments.

KT Global President Hong Shik Kim said the firm’s "vision" of a high-rise residential and commercial complex inside the free port zone will be realized with the completion of the Ampelos Tower by next year.

"Ampelos Tower is set to change the landscape of Subic," he said.

The project is composed of five 17-storey residential and commercial condominiums at the heart of the Subic’s commercial business district.

Located on a 14,000-square-meter lot inside the Subic Commercial Light and Industrial Park, Ampelos Tower offers scenic view of Subic Bay, amid one of the last few remaining triple canopy woodlands in the country.

Mr. Kim said the project, with its 490 residential and 220 "condotel" units as well as commercial spaces, would boost tourism in the region.

Mr. Kim said almost 50% of residential units have already been sold, mostly to foreign retirees, in a preselling marketing scheme. The remaining units are still available for sale to local clients and foreign investors.

Ampelos spokeswoman Jasmin Repasa said the project would be banking on the free port status of Subic, which offers various incentives and tax and duty-free privileges.

The Ampelos Tower will have amenities such as conference rooms as well as a recreation center with a spa, massage clinics, swimming pool, sports facilities, and gift shops.

"Our company is dedicated to provide a hassle-free living environment where clients can enjoy all of the benefits of safe, clean, attractive, and inviting facilities," Mr. Kim said.

"Unlike many other condo projects that are solely concerned with profit generation, our primary objective is to maintain the highest achievable level of customer satisfaction," he assured.

The Ampelos Tower project will need 100 employees in initial operations.

The Korean firm will augment the work force by another 100 in two years, executives said. (Rey Garcia, BusinessWorld)