CLARK FREEPORT — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. on October 15 inaugurated the $80‑million United Parcel Service (UPS) Clark International Air Hub at the Clark Civil Aviation Complex, a facility designed to strengthen logistics and create jobs outside Metro Manila.

The 30,000‑square‑meter hub can process 46,000 packages daily, with a maximum capacity of 15,000 per hour. Nearly 600 jobs are expected to be generated, while service expands across 1,100 global trade lanes.

CDC President and CEO Atty. Agnes VST Devanadera joined Trade Secretary Maria Cristina Aldeguer – Roque, Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez, Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) officials, UPS executives, and private‑sector partners in welcoming the investment.

In his keynote, President Marcos stressed logistics as critical for an archipelagic nation:
“This is the role of logistics. It connects our communities, sustains our businesses, and brings opportunities closer to the people. And, especially, during calamities, the timely delivery of essential supplies becomes even more critical,” he said.

The President cited challenges in the sector, including congested ports, inadequate road networks, and high logistics costs — up to 27 percent against sales, among the highest in Southeast Asia. He said the new hub contributes to improving efficiency, with innovations such as electric ground service vehicles and UPS Premier, a specialized service for healthcare and pharmaceutical shipments requiring sensor‑based tracking and cold‑chain reliability.

Marcos also pointed to Clark’s role in broader infrastructure plans, including the proposed Subic‑Clark‑Manila‑Batangas Railway and the Supply Chain and Logistics Center established by DTI. He emphasized the importance of timely completion of projects:
“When an investor promises a project, it is our job to ensure it opens on schedule. This one certainly did.”

As the country prepares for the effects of Super El Niño, the President underscored logistics in ensuring the timely movement of food and basic commodities to help prevent supply disruptions and ease pressure on prices.

CDC, as estate manager of Clark Freeport Zone, reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining an environment conducive to business and investment, recognizing the potential of major developments such as the UPS hub to generate employment opportunities, support locators, and contribute to the broader economic growth of Central Luzon.

SUBIC BAY FREEPORT — LG Electronics Philippines and Addessa Corporation launched “K-Living Starts Here,” an interactive home festival and product showcase at the Activity Center of Ayala Malls Harbor Point on October 24, featuring modern Korean-inspired living through innovative home appliances and smart home technology.

Running from October 24 to 27, 2026, the event highlights LG appliances designed to make everyday living more comfortable, convenient, and stylish.

Olongapo City Vice Mayor Kaye Legaspi joined Addessa Corporation Vice President Sonia D. Canonizado and LG Philippines Vice President for Sales Allan Aguila in the ribbon-cutting ceremony marking the opening of the event.

Also present was Fritz Dumangcas, corporate marketing head, who joined the event showcasing the latest innovations from LG Electronics.

The opening program began at 10 a.m., followed by a product showcase, the K-Living Home Tour, and a media launch. Visitors can explore LG’s latest home appliances and smart television offerings throughout the four-day event.

The “K-Living Starts Here” showcase invites mallgoers to experience Korean-inspired home living and discover appliances that combine functionality, technology, and contemporary design.

The event runs until October 27 at Ayala Malls Harbor Point in the Subic Bay Freeport Zone. (SBN Photo by Vittorio V)

“With its strategic location, well-established port infrastructure, and Freeport designation, Subic Bay provides significant opportunities for businesses involved in importing, exporting, distributing, and handling electric vehicles and related components,” said SBMA Senior Deputy Administrator for Operations and Logistics, Ronnie Yambao.

Recently, the Port of Subic received a shipment comprising 80 brand-new hybrid vehicles and 20 fully electric vehicles (FEVs), marking the first delivery of a renowned EV brand to the area.

These vehicles will be distributed to the consignee’s accredited car dealers within the coming weeks. The consignee aims to increase shipments to over 500 units per week, exceeding 2,000 per month, with projected revenue of ₱6.8 million monthly.

Strategically located in Central Luzon, Subic Bay provides access to major commercial centers, industrial zones, and transportation networks across the Philippines. Its port facilities and surrounding logistics infrastructure position it as a key gateway for international vehicle shipments, including electric passenger cars, commercial electric vehicles, electric motorcycles, and EV components.

For importers and distributors, the port offers comprehensive cargo-handling capabilities, warehousing, freight forwarding, and customs brokerage services to support the seamless movement of vehicles from overseas manufacturers to Philippine markets.

The increasing interest in sustainable transportation is creating new opportunities throughout the EV supply chain. Subic Bay is well-positioned to support various business activities, including the importation of fully assembled electric vehicles from international manufacturing centers.

This growth will also bolster the distribution and warehousing sectors by providing facilities for storage, inspection, inventory management, and distribution services. Additionally, it supports commercial fleet development by facilitating the supply of electric vans, utility vehicles, buses, and other fleet applications.

Subic Freeport can further assist the EV components and battery industry by streamlining the movement of charging equipment, replacement parts, and battery-related products, subject to applicable transport and safety regulations.

“Another significant opportunity lies in re-export and regional logistics, by exploring avenues to consolidate and transfer eligible vehicle shipments to other markets, in compliance with customs and trade regulations,” Yambao added.

The EV industry in the Philippines is experiencing rapid growth. The year 2026 is being heralded as the year of EVs, driven by elevated fuel costs resulting from geopolitical conflicts in the Middle East, and strongly supported by the national government’s thrust to transition from traditional fuel-powered engines to electric vehicles.

EV sales accounted for nearly one in every four vehicles sold nationwide (24.7%) between January and August 2026, a significant increase from 12% in 2025 and just 4% in 2024.

According to the Department of Energy (DOE), 66,685 EVs were sold during the first eight months of 2026 alone. This fleet is predominantly composed of Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) with 29,649 units, Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs) with 20,716 units, and Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) with 16,320 units.

Public transportation is also transitioning toward renewable energy, with more EV public transport vehicles operating nationwide. SBMA is leading this initiative within ecozones by deploying electric buses for public transportation throughout Subic Bay Freeport.

Furthermore, five to six major public and private EV charging stations have been installed across the Subic Bay Freeport Zone as part of the agency’s commitment to achieving Carbon Neutrality goals.

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) – Port of Subic, welcomed a significant milestone in the port’s development with the first-ever discharge of commercial BYD passenger vehicles intended for Consumption Entry at the Port of Subic.

The initial shipment consisted of 100 units of BYD cars in various models and variants, imported as a test run that could pave the way for succeeding vehicle importations through the port. The milestone marks a promising development for Subic’s role in facilitating legitimate trade and expanding its capacity to accommodate the growing demands of the automotive importation industry.

The BOC–Port of Subic and SBMA expressed their enthusiasm over this development, recognizing the potential of the initial shipment to open more opportunities for sustained importation activities, strengthen commercial partnerships, and further enhance the competitiveness of the Subic Port as a strategic trade and logistics hub.

District Collector Atty. Geniefelle P. Lagmay welcomed the development, emphasizing the Port’s commitment to providing efficient, transparent, and responsive customs services to importers and other stakeholders.

“This first discharge of BYD vehicles intended for consumption is a welcome development for the Port of Subic. We are hopeful that this initial shipment will lead to continuous importation activities and encourage more companies to utilize our port. The Port remains committed to facilitating legitimate trade while ensuring compliance with customs laws, rules, and regulations,” Collector Lagmay said.

The successful handling of the initial shipment also reflects the continuing collaboration between the BOC–Port of Subic and SBMA in promoting Subic as an attractive destination for business, investment, and trade. Through sustained coordination and efficient port operations, both agencies aim to support initiatives that contribute to economic activity and strengthen the region’s position in the country’s logistics and maritime sectors.

The Port of Subic remains committed to its mandate of facilitating legitimate trade, protecting the country’s borders, and delivering efficient customs services in support of the national government’s economic development objectives.

With this milestone, the BOC–Port of Subic looks forward to the possibility of succeeding BYD vehicle shipments and other commercial importations, further reinforcing Subic’s potential as a reliable gateway for international trade.

More than 8,000 golden-crowned flying foxes (Acerodon jubatus), an endangered fruit bat species, were recorded at a roosting site in Aurora Memorial National Park (AMNP) during a monitoring activity conducted by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) through its community office in Maria Aurora, Aurora.

The observation highlights the park’s importance as a refuge for threatened wildlife and underscores the need to protect its forest habitats.

The monitoring marked the second time DENR Maria Aurora personnel had observed the roosting site, following their initial observation last year.

DENR Maria Aurora community head Marivic Santos emphasized the ecological importance of fruit bats, particularly their role in seed dispersal and natural forest regeneration, which help sustain healthy forests and preserve biodiversity in Central Luzon.

“Protecting the roosting sites and feeding habitats of this fruit bat species is essential to sustaining ecological functions and maintaining the health of Aurora’s vast forest ecosystems,” Santos said.

Despite their contribution to forest ecosystems, golden-crowned flying foxes face conservation threats, particularly hunting and disturbances in their roosting sites. The species is classified as Endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species.

DENR Regional Executive Director Ralph Pablo, meanwhile, underscored the importance of protecting the province’s remaining forest habitats to ensure the survival of threatened wildlife and maintain ecological balance.

“The intensified and regular monitoring activities of the DENR underscore the importance of preserving natural ecosystems to ensure the survival of native wildlife and maintain ecological balance for the betterment of our region’s biodiversity,” Pablo said.

He added that the large number of flying foxes recorded at the site highlights the need for sustained wildlife monitoring, habitat protection, and science-based conservation measures within AMNP.

Pablo also called on government agencies, volunteer groups, and local communities to support biodiversity conservation initiatives and help protect the region’s natural habitats.

“We continuously encourage all government agencies, volunteer groups, and communities to join us in our biodiversity conservation efforts. Let us work together to protect the rich biodiversity and natural habitats of Central Luzon through collective action and shared responsibility, ensuring the preservation of our natural heritage for future generations,” Pablo ended.

U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines Lee Lipton built U.S.-Philippines connections in the Visayas, hosting a U.S. Independence Day reception in Mactan for the first time ever, showcasing American excellence, and strengthening partnerships that promote the safety, security, and prosperity of Americans and Filipinos.

“We host an Independence Day event in Manila every year, but I knew that, for America’s 250th birthday, we also had to bring the celebration to the Queen City of the South,” Ambassador Lipton said, adding, “U.S. companies have invested nearly $400 million in Cebu and the broader Visayas region.”

Honored guests included Philippines Department of Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Maria Andrelita Austria, Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro, Lapu-Lapu Representative Junard Chan, and Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Cynthia King Chan.

During the celebration, guests were treated to American hits such as “New York, New York,” “Fly Me to the Moon,” and “I’m So Excited,” performed by top local band Kerara Soul Cebu. Iconic images transported guests across the United States from New York’s skyline to the White House to Arizona’s majestic Grand Canyon to San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge, bringing the United States into the heart of Cebu.

Ambassador Lipton’s visit also highlighted more of America’s connections to the Visayas region.
He toured the Philippines’ Mactan-Benito Ebuen Air Base with Brig. Gen. Luisito Angeles, Jr., to see the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement site where the United States funded a $2.7 million (PHP162.8 million) fuel storage facility and work is underway on logistical facilities that will support interoperability and disaster preparedness between American and Philippine armed forces. He also met with Philippine Air Force pilots and crew responsible for strategic airlift, including the operators of the S-70i Black Hawks originally developed in the United States. These helicopters are an important way that America is supporting Philippine military modernization.

In Lapu-Lapu City, Ambassador Lipton showcased American excellence in health technology with a delivery of GeneXpert cartridges that make Americans and Filipinos safer with quick, accurate, and easy tuberculosis detection. The delivery demonstrates the $600 million (PHP36 billion) health cooperation agreement between the United States and the Philippines in action.

“By working together in TB prevention here, we invest in the people of this city. We strengthen the enduring friendship between our nations,” Ambassador Lipton said. “It is a major commitment by the Trump Administration in our Alliance. We want stronger health systems, better disease detection, and healthier communities for both our countries.”

Ambassador Lipton discussed with Cebu Governor Baricuatro opportunities to expand cooperation in critical areas like promoting reciprocal trade, tourism, public health care, and educational and cultural exchanges as well as countering transnational crime.

Ambassador Lipton visited Glory Reborn, a nonprofit maternity and newborn health clinic. Its CEO and founder is American doctor Hilary Overton and it hosts a Peace Corps Volunteer who supports its First One Thousand Days Nutrition Program.

Ambassador Lipton’s trip to Cebu is part of ongoing efforts to further strengthen the enduring ties between the United States and the Philippines. In addition to America’s 250th anniversary, 2026 marks 80 years of U.S.-Philippines diplomatic relations and the 75th anniversary of the Mutual Defense Treaty.

The service is available through the first batch of Supreme Court-accredited Electronic Notarization Facilities (ENFs), namely Twala, QLegal, and NotarizeIT. Users may access the ENFs’ registration portals through the Supreme Court’s official website.

After registering, users may select an Electronic Notary Public (ENP) from the list of commissioned ENPs published by the Supreme Court.

Instructional videos on how to use the ENFs are also available through the Court’s website. For questions or concerns, users may contact the Electronic Notary Services Helpdesk through its online form.

Registration portals: https://sc.judiciary.gov.ph/enotarization/registration-portal/Opens a new window

List of commissioned ENPs: https://sc.judiciary.gov.ph/enotarization/commissioned-enps/Opens a new window

Instructional videos: https://sc.judiciary.gov.ph/enotarization/enfs-instructional-videos/Opens a new window

Helpdesk form: https://tinyurl.com/mpu5tzzv

Cebu Pacific (PSE: CEB) has become the first carrier to use bridge mounted equipment (BME) at Clark International Airport (CRK), expanding its push for more sustainable ground operations.

Since October 2026, CEB has been using BME installed by CRK operator Luzon International Premiere Airport Development Corporation (LIPAD). The system supplies electricity and cooled air directly to aircraft parked at the gate, reducing the need to run jet fuel-powered auxiliary power units (APUs).

By drawing on airport-supplied power and cooling, aircraft use less fuel while parked, which helps lower emissions and noise during ground operations.

“Cebu Pacific fully supports Clark International Airport’s APU OFF initiatives as part of our commitment to more sustainable operations. By reducing our reliance on onboard power generation while aircraft are parked, we can help lower fuel consumption and emissions. We are proud to be the first airline to use this airport facility at Clark,” said Lei Apostol, CEB vice president for customer service operations.

LIPAD noted that the BME installation is part of its sustainability efforts to reduce fuel use, emissions, and noise at the airport.

“The operation of our new Bridge Mounted Equipment (BME) is inline with CRK’s commitment to a more sustainable operations and help our airline partners reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions. We are grateful for Cebu Pacific’s support for this initiative,” said Noel Manankil, President and CEO of LIPAD.

The move follows CEB’s adoption of BME in Cebu in 2024, where it was also the first carrier to use the equipment. The airline has also deployed electric ground support equipment (GSE), ground power unit (GPU) and air-cooling units (ACU) at Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) and the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), which helps reduce emissions compared and reliance on the aircraft’s APU when on the ground.

Through these efforts, CEB continues to work with airport partners to improve ground operations and reduce their environmental impact.

CEB operates 35 domestic and 26 international destinations across Asia, Australia, and the Middle East.

BALANGA CITY — Residents from Bataan’s 11 municipalities will soon have access to free electric shuttle rides to the provincial capitol, offering a more affordable way to reach government offices as the province begins dry-run operations of its Point-to-Point Libreng Sakay Program.

Part of Bataan’s eMobility program, the service will operate on weekdays from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., transporting passengers from their respective municipal halls to The Bunker in Balanga City, the seat of the provincial government.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. inspected the electric vehicles and charging stations at the Balanga Green Mobility Hub in Barangay Cabog-Cabog, Balanga City, on October 15.

He was accompanied by Public Works and Highways Secretary Vince Dizon, Bataan Governor Jose Enrique Garcia III, and other government officials, and met with program operators and drivers.
The fleet consists of 11 electric vehicles, including six Foton buses with 33 seats each and five Landking EV320 units with 25 seats each.

Passengers can board the vehicles at designated pick-up points at the municipal halls of Morong, Bagac, Dinalupihan, Hermosa, Orani, Samal, Abucay, Pilar, Orion, Limay, and Mariveles.

The units will travel directly to The Bunker, using the Roman Highway as the main corridor. Vehicles serving Bagac and Morong will connect to the provincial capitol through Governor J.J. Linao Road.

Detailed schedules for each route will be announced soon.

Garcia said the initiative is part of the province’s efforts to modernize transportation while making it cleaner and more accessible to residents.

“Ito po ay bahagi ng ating isinusulong na inisyatiba upang maging mas malinis at makabago ang sistema ng transportasyon sa ating Lalawigan, na layong magbigay nang mas maayos at episyenteng transportasyon para sa bawat Bataeño,” Garcia said.

The province expects the fleet to complete 89 round trips daily, covering a total of 3,090 kilometers and serving around 2,272 passengers each day.

This program is intended to benefit people visiting government offices, persons with disabilities, senior citizens, and students who need transportation to the provincial capitol.

Beyond providing free rides, it is expected to reduce transport-related emissions.

The provincial government estimates that it could avoid 52,711.23 kilograms of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions, or about 52 metric tons and estimates an average energy cost of P22.46 per kilometer, based on an electricity rate of P5 per kilowatt-hour and a diesel price of P92 per liter.

This initiative supports the national government’s push for cleaner mobility while helping residents, particularly those from outlying municipalities, access public services in Balanga City more affordably. (PIA R3-Bataan)