Administration
Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), was established under Republic Act 7227, as the Philippine government’s implementing agency to develop Subic Bay Freeport’s 67,000 hectares land into a self-sustaining industrial commercial, financing and tourism center while protecting its natural resources
The SBMA is managed by a chairman and administrator appointed by the President of the Phili9ppines and a 15-member board.
Vision
In pursuit of economic development and social progress, SBMA shall develop the Subic Bay Freeport into a globally competitive, self-sustaining and environment friendly center for industry, commerce, finance, investment, academe and tourism in the Asia Pacific Region.
Mission
• Help make our investors globally competitive
• Provide world-class infrastructure and support services
• Provide access to effective and efficient human resources
• Expand the Freeport’s economic boundaries to benefit the neighboring communities and provinces
• Maintain a balance between development and the quality of life of the people in the community it serves
Strategic Priorities
• Develop the harbor and seaport into a world-class transshipment and cargo handling facility
• Extend the Freeport’s synergies beyond its physical boundaries
• Develop an ICT infrastructure to make the Freeport a Cybercity
• Develop tourism-related facilities to attract international as well as local tourists
• Foster customer service orientation to distinguish SBMA from other public agencies
MAJOR FEATURES
Location
Subic Bay has been recognized as strategically important location for centuries. Since the first millennium, the Philippines has been a critical center in the world of trade. Spanish explorers realized the potential importance of Subic Bay in the 16th and 19th centuries and established a coaling station and arsenal to service the imperial Spanish fleet. For much of the 20th century Subic Bay was home to the US Navy, the largest and most logistically complex organization in the world.
Coy Access
Today, businesses from across the world have discovered Subic Bay Freeport’s heart-of-Asia location, its easy access to all major Asian centers and its centuries-old experience in global access.
In-Country Connection
Subic Bay Freeport provides access to Central Luzon and the country’s major sea and airports and in partnership with the nearby Clark Special Economic Zone. Both areas are critical for a future intermodal transportation hub for the Asia-Pacific region.
Road Network
The infrastructure around the Freeport today, including those left by the Americans worth US$8 billion, are being maintained and modernized by the SBMA. Well-maintained roads lead to our most impressive international airport. Subic’s road network also provides easy access to the seaport.
Port
Subic Bay’s seaport is endowed with a deep-water harbor capable of accommodating the largest cargo and passenger vessels. A grain and fertilizer terminal adjacent to the airport are now operational while a new container port will be built under a development plan, which will increase cargo handling facility capacity to 600,000 TEU’s a year
Airport
Subic Bay International Airport features a 2,700-meter runway and a 10,000 sq. meter passenger terminal capable of handling 700 passengers at any given time. Operations are supported by latest technology to ensure passenger security and comfort. A GPS System further enhances its navigational aid capabilities. The airport is the regional hub of Federal Express from which it provides fast cargo services worldwide. The airport provides direst international scheduled and chartered flights. Security facilities include X-ray baggage system, CCTV systems, walk through and handheld metal detectors, and K- dogs for drugs and bomb detection.
SERVICES
Independent and reliable power, water and sewerage, and telecommunication system benefit not only the Freeport community but also its adjacent municipalities. This will accelerate improvements that will aid in the development of neighboring areas, consistent with the vision of SBMA for an expanded horizon
Power
Efforts to privatize power distribution is seen to provide a more efficient system that can lead to the reduction of electricity rates in the Freeport Zone. Aboitiz Equity Ventures, Inc. and its
Telecommunications
Subic Telecommunications Company provides a 100,000 line capacity fiber-optic telecommunications system with fast provision of services. Three companies – Mabuhay Satellite Consortium, Subic Bay Satellite System Inc., and Omnilink, provide worldwide satellite uplink and downlink facilities. There are three Internet service providers established within the Freeport.
Water and Waste Management
The Subic Water and Sewerage Company that is in partnership with provides continuous potable water supply and adequate sewerage services to the Freeport and Olongapo City. Its water production capacity reaches about 33,000 cubic meter / day.
Other important services are also available inside the Freeport.
Courier Services
Giant Courier Federal Express chose Subic Bay as their Asian Hub, Connecting the region’s major trading centers with overnight services whether shipping high value-electronics or heavy freight. FedEx is one of the globally known companies here in Subic for many years now. DHL is also located in Subic.
Financial Institutions
There also exist reputable banking institutions in the Freeport; 14 local banks and 2 International Banks.
Community Services
A 911 system provides quick response during emergencies. Twelve fire stations equipped with the latest fire fighting and lives saving equipment are strategically located around the Freeport. There is likewise a well-equipped hospital at the Upper Cubi, and the SBMA dispensary at the airport and business district. Both offer regular medical, emergency and ambulance services.
WORKFORCE
The SBMA Labor Center maintains a large pool of qualified workforce equipped with the required management and technical skills, highly educated and skilled, proficient in English and conscientiously observe professional ethics in the workplace.
To meet future needs, academic and educational facilities have been established within the Freeport providing vocational training, technical and Post-Graduate education.
As of December 2003, the Freeport’s total workforce among locator companies is 51,486, 72% higher than the 30,000 peak level of employment during the Navy days. An average of one thousand highly productive workers are hired every month. Wage rate is highly competitive compared to other Asian countries.
Subic Bay Freeport blends the unique Filipino spirit with a multinational, multicultural community representing more than 20 countries from around the world. A wide variety of residential accommodation is available for long or short term lease. Private developers are currently constructing condominiums and renovating the campsites left by the navy to provide additional housing facilities to accommodate influx of visitors, locators and workers. Furthermore, renovation of some of the houses in Kalayaan and Binictican Heights is underway.
Primary and secondary educations of international standards are provided. Technical schools and other academic institutions including the University of the Philippines and the Ateneo de Manila University have located inside the Freeport.
Hotels and restaurants offer the best of Asian, European and American cuisine. Supermarkets meet residents’ purchasing needs by providing duty free products. Leisure facilities include a golf course, marina, equestrian center, videoke bars, sports complex, beaches and forest trails. The Freeport also features a motor sports race track, a cimena, and a home for the performing arts.
MAJOR INCENTIVES
Tax and Duty Free Importation
SBF investors enjoy tax and duty free exemptions on imported raw materials, supplies, capital equipment and other items for consumption within the Freeport.
Exemption from all Local and National Taxes with only 5% Corporate Tax on Gross Income
SBF investors are exempt from all local and national taxes such as value-added taxes, franchise taxes, excise and ad valorem taxes. They pay only a final corporate tax of 5% of their earned gross income.
No Foreign Exchange Control
There is no foreign exchange control within SBF. Full repatriation of profit is allowed.
Visas fro Foreign Nationals
The SBMA processes and directly grants special resident and investor visas. Temporary Work Permits (TWP) and Subic Special Work Visas (SSWV) may be granted to foreign nationals subject to certain requirements. Subic Special Investor Visas (SSIV), can be granted to foreign investors with an investment of at least US$ 250,000.
Expanded Allowable Deduction and Higher Percentage of Income Allowable form Sources within the Customs Territory for Regional Enterprises
Regional enterprises shall enjoy expanded deductions that shall be allowable for the calculation of gross income earned for the required 5% tax payment. Also, regional enterprises may generate revenues from sources within the Customs Territory up to 50% of its total revenues.
REGISTRATION PROCEDURE
1. Submission of Letter of Intent and Application for SBF Registration
2. Evaluation by concerned SBMA Departments
-Investment Processing Department, Ecology Center and others
3. Presentation to the SBMA Chairman of Directors for approval
4. Registration of SBF Enterprises
• Securities and Exchange
• Commission (SEC)
• SBMA
• Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR)
Evaluation Requirements
• Company Profile / Brochures
• Articles of Incorporation & By-Laws
• Product Brochures
• Annual Reports or audited Financial Statements for the past three years
• SEC Registration of Sponsoring Entity
• Client/ Supplier List with contract information
• Credit References (including name and address of creditor, size and description of loan facility, past repayment record and credit rating)
INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority has envisioned the Freeport as a mixture of industrial, commercial and tourism attractions. Investments are continuously pouring in. We offer the following key sites for investments.
Central Business District
SBF’s Central Business District, which covers about 181 hectares of land provides opportunities for mixed of commercial and tourism uses.
Subic Bay Industrial Park
The Subic Bay Industrial Park (SBIP) is a 300-hectare industrial area managed by the Subic Bay Development and Management Center (SBDMC). Phase 1 of the SBIP covers about 105 ha. Phase 11 covers 48 ha. An additional 147 ha. Is reserved for Phase 111 development.
Subic Techno Park
A 70-hectare Japanese industrial estate attracts companies engaged in electronic businesses. Also offers lots for long-term lease of 50 years.
Grande Inland
The area has been developed into a world-class island resort that offers the total family recreational experience for local and foreign tourists. A wide variety of tourism facilities and components such as beach facilities, freshwater and seawater pools, water park rides, water sports, fun rides, games, cottages including hotel and camp sites, food and beverages facilities, convenience shops plus the improvement of a terminal pier for tourist ferry services.
Redondo Peninsula
This scenic 3,800-hectare area has been earmarked for the development of subdivisions, golf courses, resort hotels and restaurants. Part of Redondo Peninsula is being reserved for the Green Beach One Project for both tourism- and industrial-bases developments. An eco-village development, a resort, marina and entertainment complex are some of the possible tourism-bases projects suitable in the area include a shipbuilding facility, containers port, specialized industrial park and a institutional research center for industrial-based developments.
Ilanin Resorts
Ilanin Forests reserved for recreational and tourism use under the National Integrated Protected Protected Areas System (NIPAS), is envisioned to be transformed into a Subic Bay Nature Park, a low density and high value activities, a Marine Park and other ecologically sound projects.
Hill 394
This area used to be a secret helipad 394 feet above sea level, constructed for military secrecy. The hill has an intact ecosystem and intact ecosystem and is perfect for picnics, trail ride, mountain biking, camping and bird watching.
ADDITIONAL FACILITIES
The development of Subic Bay Freeport as a center of industry and tourism requires improvements and construction of new facilities to meet the demands of commercial use. As a result, new facilities are being constructed to replenish the pressing need of additional amenities in the Freeport.
Convention Center
A world-class convention center, a project of Subic International Hotel, will soon rise at the Central Business District. It will be constructed on a 1,565 square meter ground floor area that can accommodate up to 1,500, with eight multifunction rooms on the second floor and training activity center for tourism-related courses.
This development is also projected to capture the hefty meetings and conventions market in the Asia Pacific that will enhance the Freeport’s bid to become a regional travel and trade hub. Subic has long been ripe for the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibits (M.I.C.E)
Sports Complex
Subic Bay International Tennis Center
A world class tennis facility ideal for international tournaments. The 5,408 square meters tennis center has seven tennis courts, four covered courts, two outdoor courts and a stadium court with a 1,500 seating capacity.
Other amenities include a spacious parking area, clubhouse with shower room, restrooms with showers, lockers and handicapped rooms.
Covered Basketball Court
Improvement of vent type steel structure to a basketball gym consisting of installation bleachers, fiberglass seat, granite and ceramic floor / wall tiles, timber floor finishes and complete with accessories.
Boxing Arena
Includes the repair and improvement of Bldg. 494 and the installation of a new structure for second floor stab, raises floor slab and a collapsible boxing arena.
Field Oval
Upgrade and conversion of existing base field oval into a six (6) lane track oval (area = 3,500 sq.m.) with an asphalt surface course and rubberized surfacing materials.
Retirement Village
Subic Bay offers convenience, security, superb environment and customer-friendly services essential in a retirement village. Tropical Paradise Retirement Village, operated by a Japanese developer, is the Holiday Villas, a master planned four-hectare leisure and retirement area in a self-contained residential community.
Subic Bay Medical Center
Subic Bay Medical Center, the only tertiary hospital in the Subic Bay Freeport that has a hotel like ambience. SVMC is located on top of the hill and in the midst of a rainforest, which provides the most serene environment for patients, care.
NATURE THEME PARKS
The creation of theme parks will make Subic a destination of maximum pleasure and enjoyment. Under the development approach devised by SBMA, the Ilanin Forest formerly known as Naval Magazine area is the perfect site for recreation, educating tourists with the value of biodiversity of Subic’s forests, swamps and marine life.
The Forest Adventure Park is located south of Ilanin Forest near the Binanga ay with an area approximately 82 hectares covering the developed areas of Group 1. It can be reached via a 25-minute drive from the Central Business District and in 17 kilometers from Olongapo City.
Objectives
• To enhance the image of the Freeport as an ideal eco-tourism destination.
• To provide adequate protection of native flora and fauna and support ecosystem within SBFZ.
• To develop public awareness through wildlife education and rehabilitation.
• To contribute ecological sustainability under which human and wildlife can co-exist.
Subic Ancient World
This park presents a unique pre-historic setting with life-size replica of dinosaurs, volcanoes, river rides, and man-made tunnels. It also features accommodations in a cave-like setting with first-class amenities of a five star hotel. It will also feature a cross section of a miniature volcano with the inside accessible to the public. There will be information signs and forms inter-active briefings including an animation show of how volcanos form beneath the surface.
Zoobic Safari
The Park is dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation and release of sick, injured and orphaned wildlife. Another important part of its mission is public education in order to encourage respect for all life as well as foster a more harmonious relationship between the public and our serving as home for different kinds of animals, both endangered and endemic species.
Jest II
It covers 1.56 hectares of land proposed to be developed similar to Upper Mau Jest Camp, which features a Bird and Prey Show, jungle tours, and jungle survival training exhibition performed by the Aetas.
Jo’s Horse Transport & Leisure
Engaged in horses as mode of transportation and source of leisure. It intends to utilize more or less 200 horses to provide horse-driven carriage utility transport (Calesas), private carriage rides (four-wheel carriage and two-wheel tilbury), horseback riding, riding trails inside and outside the theme park and a horse hostel.
GuBAT Learning Center
Aims to educate and inform people on the importance of maintaining a balance in today’s ecosystem by means of exhibits, audiovisual presentations and printed materials. It also aims to study further and share knowledge about the famous Philippine Bat.
Water Theme Park
Subic Bay Ocean Adventure is the first Marine Park and aquarium in the country. It showcases Subic Bay marine life and some of the world’s most amazing sea mammals like dolphins, sea lions and false killer whales.
TOURISM
Subic Bay – picturesque, serene, endowed with sandy beaches and cool waters, teeming with flora and fauna found only in its bountiful forest, high mountains, exceptional sceneries and a rich marine life.
Ecotourism has tremendous potential given the variety of flora and fauna and the presence of streams, waterfalls and trail systems. Ecotour attractions are plentiful in Subic Bay. Subic continues to draw more visitors with close to 8 million local and foreign tourists in 2002.
APALIIN TRAIL
Hike through the trails of Apaliin and discover the wonders of the Subic Forest. Awe at the panoramic view from the cape of Apaliin Point, and enjoy the sight of Subic Bay on a banca ride back to the Central Business District.
BAT KINGDOM
Get mesmerized at Subic’s Bamboo Bat and Flying Foxes. Over 10,000 fruitbats, the biggest of its kind in the world roast in the protected forest reserve of Subic along with the Bamboo bats, which are the smallest in the Philippines.
BICENTENNIAL PARK
Enjoy outdoors with family and friends at these scenic picnic grounds. Native fishing gears are available for those who would like to try their hand at fishing in the man-made lagoon.
JEST (Jungle Environmental Survival Training) Camp and Butterfly Garden
Familiarize yourself with jungle survival techniques from US Navy-trained Aeta Training Offices. Visit the Mini Zoo and discover Subic’s diverse biological resources or see how the butterflies lice and flourish at the Butterfly Kingdom.
PAMULAKLAKIN FOREST TRAILS / PASTOLAN AETA VILLAGE
Take part in the Ecology Tour and trek inside the forests of Subic with the help of a native guide. Immerse yourself in the culture of the Aetas. Educate yourself in the various types of medicinal plants. Whether just going on a picnic or camp out entity deep in the heart of the forest, the Pamulaklakin Forest Trail is a surefire way of forgetting the stressful urban life.
SHIPWRECKS
Delve in the magnificent underwater world of Subic Bay and come face to face with its rare marine inhabitants. Explore relics of history that date back to the Spanish and American eras.
SUBIC BAY OCEAN ADVENTURE
The first and most astounding nautical sanctuary in the country that showcases some of the world’s most amazing sea mammals like dolphins, false killer whales and sea lions in their inherent habitat.
SUBIC BEACHES
The sun. The sand. The sky. And a vast stretch of marvelous sea waiting to be explored. Dungaree. Officers. All Hands, Miracle, Nabasan, Hidden and Grande Island.
WATERFRONT BOARDWALK
Watch the majestic rising and setting of the sun, as it unfolds its beauty over the Subic Bay. Complementing the grandeur of the mountains of the Redondo Peninsula, it is truly a sight to behold.
NEW INVESTMENT SITES
Greenwoods Park
Greenwoods Park I and II are both located at the Central Area near the sentry gate. Greenwoods Park I has a total area of approximately 20,680 sq.m. It is bounded by Magsaysay Boulevard, Rizal Highway and Burgos Avenue Extension. While Greenwoods Park II is in Parcel 18 which has a total land area of 7,785 sq.m. and bounded by Sta Rita Road, Quezon Street, Aguinaldo Street and Dewey Avenue.
SBMA intends to develop Greenwoods Park into a first-rate and diversified environment, which accommodates commercial and leisure activities in a distinctive way. The area will create an interesting Freeport community gathered and wrapped up in one location. The area will have commercial and rental spaces for restaurants, snack bars, coffee shops, food chains and other related activities. Parks and open spaces will also be provided for leisure activities.
Waterfront Development (MoonBay Marina)
The project has a land area of 180,000 sq m strategically located within the Central Business District’s Waterfront. It is bounded by Dewey Ave., Waterfront Road, Sta. Rita River, and the Kalaklan.
The MoonBay Marina will feature o water theme park, a two-hectare area complete with water-related facilities. The theme park will have a lazy river, a multilevel wave pool, water slides and boat rides to provide activities for children and adults. It will also provide a first-class but affordable residential and commercial complex connected to fast food outlets and fine dining restaurants along the Bay Walk area.
Subic Gateway
Situated along Argonaut Highway, this site is ideal for a 12-hectare shopping mall; 8-hectare convention center with a 3,500 capacity Plenary Hall with 20 meeting rooms varying from 200 to 1,500 seating capacity; a 10,000 sq m multi-purpose hall as venue of local and international exhibits, trade shows, performances, concerts and other indoor assemblies, and a 1.5-hectare business hotel to house convention participants.
PORT DEVELOPMENT
Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) envision the transformation of Subic Bay Freeport into a leading transshipment hub in Asia because of its well-sheltered natural deep harbor and strategic position to all major international shipping routes.
Subic Bay has a deepwater harbor that is capable of handling the largest ships ever built, manifested when it once supported the mighty US 7th Fleet. Subic Bay Freeport has a total of 15 operational piers and wharves servicing different kinds of sea vessels from small crafts, commercial yachts and ferry boats to container vessels, cargo ships, oil tankers and aircraft carriers.
SBMA is targeting year 2007 to compete its US$215 million short-term development plan for Subic’s port facilities. At present, only one gantry crane is installed at Sattler Pier and is operational. The crane is capable of handling up to 100,000 TEUs per annum. It can also hold a maximum capacity of 30 metric tons and could lift 30 containers per hour or an average of one container for every two minutes. Two port terminals have likewise been built and are now operational; the Fertilizer Bulk Terminal at the Boton Wharf and the Grain Bulk Terminal at the Leyte Wharf.
The Subic Port Development project has two parts consisting of three phases. The short-term development plan extends up to year 2007 and is the first and second phases of the project. Phase 1 involves the construction of a 280 meter berth, and the installation of two gantry cranes with total handling capacity of 300,000 TEUs a year. In Phase 2, another berth measuring 280 meters will be constructed and two additional gantry cranes will be installed, increasing Subic’s cumulative total handling capacity to 600,000 TEUs a year.
The long-term development plan will be sustained up to year 2020 and includes the third phase of the project. Phase 3 of the project, however, is not covered by the JBIC loan agreement. Its financing will largely depend on the need and actual volume generated in the future.
MODERNIZATION PRIORITIES
Cyber Subic
The CyberSubic vision is made up of eight key components designed to transform the Freeport into a strategic IT center in the country and in Asia. Subic Bay has fortified its position as the e-commerce hub of the region as the Cyber Subic program shifts into high gear. These include academic and technical schools; computer peripheral manufacturing; computer-bases manpower inventory; communication systems; research and development institutions; e-commerce and IT-bases marketing and services; software development; and SBMA’s own IT support services.
The establishment of the Ortho-Geographic Information System (GIS) has enabled to Freeport to readily provide geographic data on its land-bases resources such as roads and buildings.
The Integrated Financial Management System (IFMS) automates the processing of vital financial and accounting records necessary to facilitate transactions and management decisions.
The Trade Automation Facilitating System has just been activated to better facilitate the processing of import; export and transshipment permit through online declaration of shipments.
Prospective investors can look forward to amore efficient processing system automates the investor handling process, from inquiry to the actual establishment of the business.
The SBMA, through its Asset Information System (IsIS), a computerized inventory system for fixed assets such as buildings and hoses can more efficiently monitor and manage its land-based assets.
Another useful application of the GIS is the Ecology Center Information System (ECIS). This computerized database of vital information on Subic Bay Freeport’s ecosystem components such as flora, fauna and coastal areas, makes it possible for SBMA to more effectively manage and monitor these resources.
Expanded Horizon
SBF will share its harbor and airport with its neighboring communities Morong, Hermosa, Dinalupihan, Subic Town, San Marcelino, and San Antonio – to accommodate further influx of business. The opening and improvements of access roads in the future will be an incentive for investors to locate in these areas. The construction of a 42-kilometer Subic – Clark Toll Road will provide easier access to Asian Markets. The alliance between Subic Bay Freeport and Clark Economic Zone will enable the country’s two premier economic development areas to complement their assets and create a ‘growth corridor” to strengthen the region’s economy.
SEAL OF EXCELLENCE
Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority received on August 27,2003 the ISO 9001:2000 Certification from the auditing body of internationally acclaimed ISO organization TUV Inc., that promotes excellence in both public and private services. The SBMA is the first among economic zones and government agencies to be certified as a “whole organization” that validates the culture of customer service and transparency in its process that Subic Freeport has institutionalized.
The ISO 9001:2000 Quality Management System is being used to help both product – and service-oriented organizations to achieve high standards of quality and transparency in their process.
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