The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) will undertake infrastructure projects valued at P41.43 billion and slated for completion by 2028.
The projects include a new cruise ship terminal, port expansion and airport modernization which aim to transform Subic Bay into a world-class economic and tourism hub.
“Subic Bay is on the cusp of a transformation. With our strategic investments in cruise tourism, port infrastructure, and airport modernization, we are not only creating a world-class destination but also laying the foundation for sustained economic growth and prosperity for the region and the nation,” said SBMA chairman and administrator Eduardo Jose Aliño.
The agency plans to pursue public-private partnerships (PPP) and official development assistance (ODA) to fund the projects.
First in the pipeline is a P10.16-billion port project to be undertaken in two phases. It involves the construction of a P1.2-billion double-berth 380-meter pier and a P8.96-billion 20-hectare reclamation for the cruise passenger terminal.
The SBMA expects international and local cruise operations to boost local and national economies through increased employment, revenue and tourism spending.
It said to address the anticipated surge in cargo traffic, the SBMA is also positioning the P13-billion Multipurpose Port Terminal (MPT) at Lower Mau to add a 570-meter wharf and a 17.2-hectare back-up area, increasing bulk cargo capacity by 2.5 million metric tons.
The P11-billion MPT at Redondo Peninsula will feature a 600-meter wharf and a 30-hectare back-up area, further expanding port capacity by 3 million metric tons.
Recognizing the importance of air connectivity, the SBMA allocated P7.02 billion to modernize and upgrade the Subic Bay International Airport (SBIA). This includes improvements to existing buildings, new facilities and a potential expansion to accommodate up to 6 million passengers annually.
A P4.3 billion investment is also planned for a new hotel and parking facilities within the airport complex. This aims to enhance the visitor experience, promote the use of the SBIA and stimulate tourism in the Subic Bay Freeport.
SBMA senior deputy for operations Ronnie Yambao said a feasibility study is underway to explore further expansion possibilities for the SBIA, potentially including extending the runway, expanding aprons, relocating the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) air traffic control (ATC) tower and constructing a new passenger terminal building.
Airport enhancements are projected to generate an annual revenue of P12.5 billion, contributing to the objectives of the Luzon Economic Corridor.
