Subic-made exports hit all-time high at $1.34B in 2010

Total export value of Subic-made products hit the freight-on-board (FOB) value of $1.34 billion in 2010, an all-time high record for the Subic Bay Freeport as it also posted the biggest annual revenue collection here last year.

Subic’s total exports last year surpassed the 2009 export value of $1.08 billion by 24.6 percent or $265.6 million.

Like the Philippine economy, which went well last year, the Subic Bay Freeport reached new heights in 2010, said Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) administrator and CEO Armand Arreza, who recently presented the state of the free port to Subic investors.

Arreza pointed out that aside from posting the new export record, Subic Freeport also turned out the biggest amount of duties and taxes in a single year – a total of P6.68 billion on 2010, as well as one of the highest import values so far – a total of $3.48 billion.

Arreza said that these indicate a stronger Subic economy and the growing competitiveness of the free port as a manufacturing and trading center.

According to SBMA records, the top 10 exporters last year contributed the bulk of export production – turning out an aggregate of $1.16 billion out of the total value of $1.34 billion.

The biggest exporters were led by Korean shipbuilder Hanjin Heavy Industries Corp.-Philippines (HHIC-Phil), which exported a total of $725.8 million in FOB value.

Hanjin’s exports in 2010 included two oil tankers – the ―M/T Leyla K and its twin ―M/T Eser K, that were delivered in January and March, respectively, to the Turkish-owned Kaptanoglu Shipping Line.

Hanjin officials said the two were the first and biggest crude oil tankers ever built in the Philippines, tipping the scales at 114,000 deadweight tons and measuring 241.27 meters long, 44 meters wide, and 21.35 meters deep. Each was worth $68 million.

In February last year, Hanjin also completed the ―APL Bahrain, 259.8 meter-long container ship which has a capacity of 4,330 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs). This was built for the Singapore-based American President Lines (APL).

Following Hanjin among the top exporters were Japanese electronics producer Sanyo Denki Phils., Inc., which produced $103.2 million in exports; Taiwanese computer-maker Wistron Infocomm Phils., with $75.3 million; Japanese ATM-machine manufacturer Hitachi Terminals Mechatronics Phils. Corp., with $57.7 million; and Taiwanese metal manufacturer Tong Lung (Phils.) Metal Industry, with $53.1 million.

Completing the list of top 10 exporters are: Juken Sangyo (Phils.) Corp., with exports of $53 million; Tapu Corp., with $27.7 million; Nicera Philippines, Inc., with $22.2 million; Cano Subic Corp., with $20.8 million; and Nidec Subic Philippines Corp., with $18 million.

At least four of the top 10 exporters were also in the list of the Bureau of Internal Revenue’s list of top taxpayers in Subic.

Meanwhile, imports by Subic-registered firms also showed a strong performance, jumping by 55.28 percent to $3.48 billion in 2010 from a mere $2.24 billion in 2009.

According to records from the SBMA Trade Facilitation and Compliance Office, the total FOB value of the top 10 importers here last year amounted to $2.79 billion, or more than 80 percent of the yearend total.

Topping the list of Subic’s top 10 importers was Sanyo Denki Philippines, Inc., with total imports of $606.48 million. Sanyo Denki has been consistently in the top 10 importers list for the last five years.

Following Sanyo Denki were: PTT Philippines Trading Corporation with $424.6 million in imports; HHIC-Phil with $381.38 million; Koryo Subic, Inc., $368.84 million; Nicera Phils., $240.85 million; Nidec Subic Phils. Corp., $224.25 million; Koushin Mfg. Phils., Inc., $183.33 million; Wistron Infocomm (Phils.) Corp., $156.96 million; Micro Dragon Petroleum, Inc., $138.23 million; and Challenger Aero Air Corporation, $67.62 million.(SBMA-PRD/AMV/PIA Zambales)

SBMA moves to transform port into int’l service, logistics center

Subic Bay Freeport’s marine logistics facilities here are now the top priority of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) as the agency exerts all efforts to fully utilize the New Container Terminals (NCT-1 and NCT-2) and transform the Freeport into a globally competitive service and logistics center.

According to lawyer Red Tuazon, who is SBMA OIC-senior deputy administrator for aviation and maritime operations, the agency is bent on attracting port users to fully utilize the port of Subic, which boasts of 15 piers and wharves capable of handling all types of vessels and has a total capacity of 600,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs).

He said the Subic port has a huge potential in marine logistics because of the four main ports in the country. Subic port is now ranked third in terms of container cargo traffic with 21,623 TEUs recorded in 2009, next only to Manila with 2.87 million TEUs and Cebu with 469,776 TEUs.

In terms of bulk and break bulk cargo, the Subic port ranked fourth with 2.2-million metric tons, he added.

Tuazon, who led the SBMA delegation to the recent 6th Philippine Ports and Shipping 2011 Exhibition and Conference, said the SBMA is now eyeing the privatization of NCT-2, which has been delayed due to a lack of quorum in the SBMA board of directors.

Tuazon clarified that the NCT-2 was initially bid out by the SBMA Special Bids and Award Committee (SBAC) in 2009. However, while three entities purchased the bidding document, no bids were submitted on the scheduled submission date, thus the bidding was declared a failure.

Thereafter, the SBMA revised the terms of reference (TOR) for this project and went back to its original intention of operating NCT-2 as a container terminal, Tuazon recalled.

In 2010, a rebidding of NCT-2 was conducted, using the same procedure as in 2009, but this time with a revised TOR. Tuazon said the three entities again purchased the bidding document, but only the International Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI) submitted eligibility/pre-qualification documents and bid.

Tuazon said the SBMA’s SBAC reportedly checked the bid of ICTSI and found it in order, but before the SBAC could forward its recommendation for award to the SBMA board of directors, Malacañang revoked the appointments of 13 directors pursuant to Executive Order No. 2 which took effect on July 30, 2010, thereby leaving the decision-making body without a quorum.

“However, with the recent appointment of eight new SBMA directors, bringing to 10 the number of directors sitting in the SBMA board, it is likely that the privatization of the NCT-2 will be one of the agenda when the new board convenes,” Tuazon said.

Tuazon also stressed that the new board has not indicated that it would scrutinize the contract for the NCT-2.

According to SBMA records, the Subic seaport earned a total of P414.5 million in 2010 and a slightly higher income of P472.85 million in 2009 due to a P6-million monthly earning from ships laid up at Subic Bay during the global economic crisis. By JONAS REYES - mb.com.ph

Job Opportunities in Olongapo-Subic Bay

• VENUE MANAGER
• RESTAURANT MANAGER
• ACCOUNTING ASSISTANT
• EXECUTIVE SECRETARY
• PERSONAL ASSISTANT
• SALES ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
• ENGINEER
• ARCHITECT
• ASSISTANT MANAGER
• INTERNAL SECURITY
• GUIDANCE COUNSELOR
• COOK / KITCHEN HELPER
• SCHOOL BUS DRIVER
• INTERNAL SECURITY
• MIS OFFICER I
• ACCOUNT ASSOCIATE
• HUMAN RESOURCE OFFICER
• EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT
• SCHOOL LIBRARIAN
• ELEMENTARY TEACHER/ PRE-ELEM
• HIGH SCHOOL TEACHER
• SCHOOL PRINCIPAL
• PURCHASING MANAGER
• PERSONNEL AND GENERAL AFFAIRS MANAGER
• INTERNAL SECURITY
• MIS SPECIALIST
• RESORT SUPERVISOR
• EXECUTIVE CHEF
• HR ASSISTANT
• HR SUPERVISOR
• KITCHEN STAFF

Olongapo City - Gerald Dalan, 2nd runner up in 5th Philippine Sudoku Super Challenge National Finals

Gerald Dalan, Grade 5 student of Olongapo Wesley School received a cash incentive amounting to ten thousand pesos (P10,000) for placing 2nd runner up during the recently held 5th Philippine Sudoku Super Challenge National Finals.  His coach is Ms. Leonel C. Sanchez.  Gerald will be one of the representatives of the country in several international competitions such as the 2011 World Sudoku Championship in Hungary, BRAND'S Sudoku Challenge 2011 Asia Pacific Open in Singapore and the 2011 Princess Somsawali Cup in Bangkok.

Olongapo City - Gawang Gapo - JEL'S PEANUT BUTTER

This week's exhibitor for the Gawang Gapo Product Exhibit Booth is JEL'S PEANUT BUTTER - maker of special home-made creamy, delicious peanut butter. (owner - Eleonor Magbata)

5 missing Subic fishermen land in Vietnam

SUBIC, ZAMBALES --Five fishermen reported missing by the Philippine Coast Guard station here since January 24, 2011 are now in Vietnam after they were rescued by Vietnamese fishing vessels.

They were identified as Regino Suico, 31; Naptalie Surbano, 45; Remy Joy Jiray, 38; Alfredo Mangubat, 41; and Diego Abano, 24, all residents of Purok 6, Bgy. Calapandayan, Subic, Zambales.

The victims were on board M/B CAP V when their banca capsized due to big waves and strong winds. Coast Guard Public Affairs Officer Lt. Commander Armand Balilo said they have already contacted the Department of Foreign Affairs for the return of the fishermen.

The fishermen are now in the custody of Maritime Rescue Coordinating Council in Hanoi.

The five fishermen, who are all in good condition, are now staying at the Tuy Hoa Hotel in Phu Yen province. Mamer Bañez -.journal.com.ph

There is a big demand for bamboos as Masinloc strives to supply need

MASINLOC, Zambales — To answer an executive order requiring the use of bamboo in furniture needs of public schools and other construction requirements of government institutions, a farmers and fishermen cooperative of this town is striving to meet the demands in bamboo development.

Executive Order (EO) No. 879 created the Philippine Bamboo Industry Development Council (PBDIC) “to promote the bamboo industry and direct[ed] the use of bamboo for at least 25% of the desk and other furniture requirements of public elementary and secondary schools and prioritiz[e] the use of bamboo in furniture, fixtures and other construction requirements of government facilities….”

The Pinagkaisang Samahan ng Magsasaka at Mangingisda ng Masinloc Multipurpose Cooperative, Inc. (Unified Association of Farmers and Fishermen of Masinloc Cooperative, Inc.) through its manager, Delfin Alansalon, reported that they are readying bamboo slats to be supplied to a bamboo processing plant in Marikina.

He said that so far, around four suppliers have signified interest to supply more bamboo slats.

The municipality of Masinloc was identified as a bamboo node because of the abundance in raw materials and as a strategic location, with the towns of Palauig and Candelaria having similar volume of bamboo.

An area is called a node if it has facilities and equipment to process bamboo slats. A hub, on the other hand, is capable of processing bamboo into desks or other furniture.

The cooperative is the sole beneficiary of some P300,000 investment from the Provincial Bamboo Development Council. It was given to them in the form of seminars and equipment outlay.

However, Alansalon also reported that the buying price of processed bamboo slats, which is pegged at three pesos per piece, is not feasible due to the high cost of bamboo poles which cost around P150.

Only those from the middle part of a bamboo pole are being processed into slats because of the thickness requirements needed by processed bamboo furniture makers, Alansalon revealed.

He said that processed slats should be priced at six pesos per piece. He also suggested that one way to make bamboo materials cost-effective is to put up a hub nearby.(Allen M. Villa/PIA Zambales)

Ebdane launches 3-day Zambales sports festival

CANDELARIA, Zambales, Philippines – Zambales Province opens its pristine waters and powdery magnetite sand beaches to close to 600 participants as it hosts to the Zamba Multi-sports Festival March 18-20 in this town that lies along the coastline of South China Sea.

The three-day affair will feature competitions in cycling, open water swim, ultimate frisbee, sprint duathlon, and triathlon spiced with exciting side events like a body tattoo competition, bikini open and beach party.

“We want people to see how beautiful Zambales is,” Zambales Gov. Hermogenes Ebdane said during the press launch Wednesday night at the Dawal Beach Resort here.

“Zambales is La Union, Siargao and Boracay all rolled into one. We have powdery sands and azure waters and we have probably the cleanest shoreline today. When you go surfing and you fall off your board, you’ll land on sand instead of rocks. So Zambales is indeed a great venue for a multi-sport festival similar to those held in Thailand,” he added.

The Zamba Cycling Challenge, a 120-km road race from Iba Capitol to Sta. Cruz and back, will kick off festivities on March 18. Some 200 riders are expected in the Open and Executive divisions, led by Rustom Lim, bronze medalist in the recent Asian Youth Cycling Championships, and national duathlon team mainstay John Chicano from Sta. Cruz town.

A heavy bill is set on March 19 at the Dawal Beach Resort and Uacon Cove here: the 2-km Open Water Swim ; the National Ultimate Black Sands Frisbee Elimination; Sprint Duathlon (5-km run, 30-km bike, 3 km run); and the body tattoo and bikini open events.

Antonio Vasquez of the Philippine Ultimate Association said the Black Sands Frisbee tourney will serve as a pre-qualifying to the Boracay Open, the most prestigious ultimate competition in the country. It will also mark the first time for a competitive beach ultimate tilt to be held at night, thanks to ready facilities at the Dawal beach, where the magnetite sands offer a dark, nearly blackish hue.

The fest will culminate with the Zamba Black Sand Triathlon on March 20 at Dawal Beach Resort, an open and age-group competition that according to national coach Melvin Fausto will serve as part of the Triathlon Association of the Philippines’ grassroots programs. He said TRAP expects to discover talents for major tourneys like the Youth Olympic Games in this competition.

Zambales provincial administrator Omar Ebdane said the Zamba Multi Sports Festival 2011 is just the start of a continuous sporting activities in Zambales, the second largest province in Central Luzon in terms of land area. Ebdane launches 3-day Zambales sports festival

By Olmin Leyba (The Philippine Star)

CLARAA

Mayor James “Bong” Gordon, Jr., and First lady Anne Gordon with the Olongapo City delegation at the opening ceremonies of the Central Luzon Regional Athletic Association (CLRAA) 2011 in Malolos, Bulacan on February 20, 2011. Also with the delegation were Olongapo City Schools Division Supt. Ligaya Monato(right), Asst. Schools Division Supt. Naomi Arzadon, Councilors Tet Marzan, Rodel Cerezo, Ellen Dabu, Eduardo Piano, Edna Elane, Schools Div. Sports Coordinator Saturnino Dumlao and some Olongapo City Officials and employees.

Inauguration of the Newly Constructed Chemotherapy Unit at the JLGMH

Mayor James “Bong” Gordon, Jr. and First Lady Anne Gordon spearheaded the blessing and inauguration recently of the newly constructed Chemotherapy Unit at the James L. Gordon Memorial Hospital.

Olongapo City - National Arts Month Festival

National Arts Month

Kick-off Ceremony

February 25, 2011 at OCNHS Quadrangle

for more pics please click the link below.

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=54395&id=100000603967895&fbid=197325273630937

SBMA Fire Department launches fire safety ‘fun run’

In observance of the National Fire Prevention Month in March, the Fire Department of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) will promote fire safety awareness the healthy and active way – through a “fun run”.

Dubbed as “Run for Fire Safety 2011: Go! Go! Go!” the first edition of the SBMA Fire Department Fun Run will be held on March 19, around the Subic Bay Freeport, said SBMA fire chief Ranny Magno.

“Fire safety is very important as we need to raise the consciousness of Subic stakeholders on the precautions, alertness and actions that we take to prevent or reduce the likelihood of a fire that may result in death, injury or damage to property,” Magno said.

“This is why the fun run is open to all SBMA employees, Freeport locators, and running enthusiasts, so we can involve more people in raising awareness on fire safety and prevention,” he added.

Runners may join in the 3-kilometer, 5-kilometer, or 10-kilometer distance category, Magno also said.

Aside from promoting fire safety, the activity will raise funds for the purchase of permanent fire safety markers bearing fire prevention messages and slogans to be installed within the Subic Freeport.

This will be sourced from the P50 entrance fee that will be collected from all participants in the fun run, Magno said.

“The fun run would also help promote health awareness because running or jogging is known to be effective in reducing body weight, slowing down the aging process, and fighting diseases and disorders,” he added.

Meanwhile, SBMA fire officer and race organizer Raul Zapanta said that at least 5,000 participants from various sectors and organizations in Olongapo City, Zambales and the Subic Freeport are expected to join the 1st SBMA Fire Department Fun Run.

Among the groups expected to participate are the Philippine Red Cross, Olongapo-KHG Rescue Team, SBMA employees, free port workers, and students from various schools in Olongapo and Subic Freeport.

Interested runners may join the race by submitting a filled-up registration form on or before March 8, 2011 to the SBMA Fire Department. Inquiries will be entertained at telephone number (047)252-4227. Please ask for Michell Madriaga.(SBMA-PRD/AMV/PIA Zambales)

SBMA reports rise in service, logistics firms inside freeport

SUBIC BAY FREEPORT– More companies engaged in service and port-related businesses are locating in this free port, further boosting Subic’s bid to become a globally-competitive service and logistics hub in the Southeast Asian region.

Six-year figures compiled by the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) since 2005 indicate the shift in investments toward service and logistics, which now average more than 20 new entrants per year compared to an average of just 14 new projects per year for the manufacturing industry.

“It used to be that manufacturing was king in Subic, but that sector is now moving at a more sedate pace, due primarily to the limited availability of open space in Subic,” said SBMA administrator Armand Arreza.

“On the other hand, we are focusing more on the logistics sector because of the national government’s thrust to build a world-class logistics network in Subic and Clark Freeport,” he added.

Arreza also said that once the expansion areas being eyed by the SBMA in nearby communities become available, “then we might see resurgence in manufacturing projects.”

According to SBMA records, a total of 169 investment projects in the services sector were approved by the SBMA in the last six years, or an average of 28 projects per year, making this sector the fastest-growing in recent years.

Year-on-year figures for the services sector placed new projects at 13 in 2005, 29 in 2006, 37 in 2007, 46 in 2008, 32 in 2009, and 12 in 2010.

The second fastest growth was recorded for the tourism sector, which attracted a total of 158 projects, or an average of 26 projects per year, in the said six-year period.

On the other hand, 120 projects were approved for the trading, warehousing and transshipment sector, or an average of 20 projects per year since 2005.

For the same period, manufacturing projects came in at an average of 14 projects per year, thereby resulting in a six-year total of 84 projects.

Arreza said that the manufacturing sector actually went down to number 5 among the fastest-growing sectors here last year, up by one slot from its number six standing in 2009 at the height of the global economic crisis.

In 2007 and 2008, manufacturing ranked number four, down two slots from its rank as second biggest in 2006.

Arreza also noted that after manufacturing, more service- and logistics-based businesses are gaining more proponents in the Subic Bay Freeport.

These include retailing, which recorded a total of 67 new projects in 2005-2010, or an average of 11 projects per year; port-related, which gained a total of 58 new projects, or an average of 9; information technology, which had 50 projects, for an average of eight per year; and institutions, which got 45 projects, or an average of seven in the six-year period.

Because of the shift towards service and logistics businesses, Arreza said port-related investments surged to a total of $1.82 billion in 2005-2010, followed by tourism-related, which generated some $1.48 billion in the last six years.

In contrast, manufacturing projects took a steady course at a total of $560.41 million in the same period.

Despite this, the manufacturing sector projected the highest number of jobs in the last six years at a total of 14,528.

It was followed by port-related businesses with a total of 10,231 jobs; services sector, with 7,863; tourism, with 8,008; retailing, with 8,239; and trading, warehousing and transshipment, with 3,392.(SBMA-PRD/AMV/PIA Zambales)

Annual Vehicles Inspection

The Office of Traffic Management and Public Safety (OTMPS), on orders of Mayor James "Bong" Gordon, Jr., has began thorough inspections of public utility vehicles in Olongapo City as part of the Annual Inspection and Evaluation to ensure compliance with safety and other requirements for the benefit of the general public. The inspections commenced on February 21, 2011 and will last up to April 07, 2011as scheduled based on vehicle type.

Exports by locators in Subic increase faster in 2010

Value of merchandise exports from locators here increased faster last year, hitting $1.34 billion, the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) said in a statement yesterday.

The statement quoted SBMA Administrator and CEO Armand D. Arreza as saying that such exports last year surpassed the $1.08 billion recorded in 2009 by 24.5%. Exports in 2009, in turn, saw a slower 10.4% rise from some $977.8 million the preceding year.

The biggest exporters were led by Korean shipbuilder Hanjin Heavy Industries Corp.-Philippines (HHIC-Phil), which exported a total of $725.8 million. Hanjin’s exports in 2010 included two oil tankers that were delivered in January and March to the Turkish-owned Kaptanoglu Shipping Line.

Following Hanjin as major exporters were Japanese electronics producer Sanyo Denki Phils., Inc., whose shipments totaled some $103.2 million; Taiwanese computer maker Wistron Infocomm Phils. with $75.3 million; Japanese ATM-machine manufacturer Hitachi Terminals Mechatronics Phils. Corp. with $57.7 million; Taiwanese metal manufacturer Tong Lung (Phils.) Metal Industry with $53.1 million; Juken Sangyo (Phils.) Corp. with $53 million; Tapu Corp. with $27.7 million; Nicera Philippines, Inc. with $22.2 million; Cano Subic Corp. with $20.8 million; and Nidec Subic Philippines Corp., $18 million.

The same SBMA statement noted that imports by Subic-registered firms jumped by a bigger 55% to $3.48 billion last year from $2.24 billion in 2009.

Leading the list of Subic’s importers were Sanyo Denki Philippines, Inc., with total imports of $606.48 million; PTT Philippines Trading Corp. with $424.6 million; HHIC-Phil, $381.38 million; Koryo Subic, Inc., $368.84 million; Nicera Phils., $240.85 million; Nidec Subic Phils. Corp., $224.25 million; and Koushin Mfg. Phils., Inc., $183.33 million. -- RMG - bworldonline.com

Olongapo City - Gawang Gapo - BREAD ROLLS

This week's exhibitor for the Gawang Gapo Product Exhibit Booth is BREAD ROLLS - maker of home-made flavored rolls. (owner - Luz Gloria)

PNP ENTRANCE AND PROMOTIONAL EXAMINATIONS IN OLONGAPO CITY

The Philippine National Police will simultaneously conduct the nationwide Entrance and Promotional Examinations on April 17, 2011, Sunday.

“This Office, encouraged and inspired by the success of such innovative strategy, intends to conduct the forthcoming examinations in at least five (5) test centers nationwide to include Olongapo City,” according to Raquel Q. Ramos, National Police Commission (Napolcom) Region 3 Director.

“We are expecting some 900 examinees both in the promotional and entrance examinations,” Ramos added.

“Certainly, the conduct of examination in Olongapo City will boost the morale of the PNP in the City and nearby provinces. This will also open the opportunity for civilians to join the PNP service,” explained Ruben C. Delos Santos, Napolcom Director for Olongapo, Zambales and Bataan.

“Through the efforts of Mayor James “Bong” Gordon Jr., Olongapo has been chosen for the second time for the PNP entrance and Promotional exams," said delos Santos.

“Ang gusto ko, maraming taga-Olongapo at Zambales ang maka-pag-pulis kaya sinikap kong magkaroon ng exams dito,” said Mayor Gordon, “para mahikayat ang ating mga kababayan dahil tipid na sa gastos, tipid pa sa pagod at oras ng biyahe."

GORDON COLLEGE TOPS ALL SCHOOLS IN OLONGAPO, ZAMBALES AND BATAAN IN NURSING EXAMS

Gordon College (GC) once again topped all schools in the city and outlying communities in the latest Nurse Licensure Examinations (NLE) given by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC)-Board of Nursing.

“With 27 out of 56 takers hurdling the exams, Gordon College registered a passing mark of 48.21 percent, a lot higher than the national passing rate of 35%," said Arlida Pame, president of Gordon College.

Nationwide, of 84,287 takers, only 29,711 passed the exams given by the PRC.

Gordon College's 48.21 percent was followed by Metro Subic Colleges with a far 31.71 percent, Columban College, 25 percent, George Dewey Medical College, 20.59 percent, Bataan Peninsula State University (BPSU), 19.55 percent and Ramon Magsaysay Technological University (RMTU) with 18.69 percent, according to figures released by the PRC.

Last year, Gordon College produced 100 new registered nurses, ranking 22nd among the top performing nursing schools with 65 percent passing rate.

The NLE passers are ABUAN, Emilroy Tapec;BALDOS, Mike; CATALAN, Edna Marie Matinong; COMIA, Ellaine Ramos; CULCUL, Riza Claire Almondia; DELA CRUZ, Hannilyn Sambrano; DURAN, Ronald Ray San Agustin; EBEN, Kristine Grace, Reyes; ELAMBRE, Jena, Tacuyan; FAMULARCANO, Rochelle Sarael; FERRER, Jane Alyzza Evangelista; FRIAS, Raizell Ann Roscom; GABRIEL, Gary Rhey Buhain; GUMBA, Rodelyn, Fernando; LALUAN, Alyssa Erika Tadeo; LAPUZ, Juanito Jr. Punio; MESINA, Rose Ann, Suarez; MISTA, April Mae Camus; OLALIA, Harold Olaivar; PASCUA, Jerwin Lazaro; PERTACORTA, Jezreel Laguisma; RAMOS, John Michael Morales; SALAZAR, Christian James Dominico; SALAZAR, Mark Angelo, Villela; SANCHEZ, Bernard Dalaorao; and, TABABAN, Lyndon John Buluran.

Barangay Newly Elected Officials (BNEO) Program 2011

Mayor James “Bong” Gordon, Jr. delivers his message recently at the 4-day seminar of the newly elected Barangay officials in Ibay Zion Hotel, Baguio City. Mayor Gordon encouraged all barangay officials to be ready in times of disaster and implement programs on disaster risk management effectively.

Big cast seen in SPEEDO age-group triathlon in Subic

A big field of triathletes are expected to join the 2011 SPEEDO National Age Group Triathlon Series 1st leg which begins on Sunday at the Subic Bay Freeport.

This is the second straight time the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) is joining hands with the organizing Triathlon Association of the Philippines (TRAP) for the staging of the inaugural leg of the NAGT in this year’s event.

A total of 237 triathletes will be competing in this age-group tournament, which will serve as a training ground for future national team members.

“We’re happy, and at the same time surprised, to see a big number of triathletes right in our first event for the year. We even had to order additional finishers' shirts to accommodate all the participants," said TRAP president Tom Carrasco Jr.

The race starts and finishes at the Dungaree Beach, with participants competing in different age groups in mini-sprint and standard distance.

Kids from 6 to 12 years old will be competing in the Super Tri-Kids Aquathlon.

As in previous years, the top 10 triathletes in the standard distance (1.5-K swim, 40-K bike, 10-K run) will earn points based on their order of finishes per leg, with the overall leader after six legs gaining possible slots in the national pool.

Other NAGT legs will be staged in Davao (March 13), Plantation Bay in Mactan (April 3), Cagayan de Oro (August 6), Ayala Alabang (October 16), and Los Baños, Laguna (December 10).

Body markings start at 5 a.m. while the race briefing begins at 5:50 am. - KY, RCJ, GMA News

Olongapo City - Clark Education City Orientation

More than eighty (80) participants attended the Clark Education City Orientation led by John P. Dizon, National Client Relations Manager of Clark Education City- AITMG at 2nd Floor., FMA Hall, Olongapo City Hall on February 17, 2011.

21 teams seeing action in Subic Bike King Cycling race

AT least 200 riders representing 21 teams are competing in the first leg of the 2011 Bike King Cycling Classic unfolding this Saturday at the Subic Bay Freeport.

LPGMA-American Vinyl, 7-11, and David’s Salon, regular fixtures in cycling events, lead competing clubs in the one-day race being held in cooperation with the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority and Triathlon Association of the Philippines, with Subic Holiday Villas as the official hotel.

Yellow Cab, Aboitiz Power, Franzia Wine, Heritage Park, MJY Bike Zone, BVTC JAC Motors, JGMCA, Mossimo, Normin Triminda, Pair Cargo, Quest 825, Sevenlakes, Suunto, TNCC, Von Dutch-Bont, Mileage Gasoline Station, Fitness First and Bike King complete the cast vying for gold medals at stake in three divisions, namely, the men’s 70-kilometer Category 3 and 4 and women’s 30-kilometer Points Race.

The Category 4 race is for beginners and has attracted the most number of participants with 144 riders. Category 3 features 46 cyclists who have seen action in past cycling events while 10 female riders are also joining the race supported by Unilab Active Health, Pocari Sweat, Crystal Clear Water, Orbea Bicycles, Corratec Bicycles, Corima Racing Wheels, Knog, Polar Insulated Bottles and Weekend Warriors.

"This is the first of three legs to be held this year and we plan to add two more categories in our next races so everyone gets to race against riders that are of the same ability, both in strength and riding skills, to produce balanced and exciting competition," said race organizer Raul Cuevas, the CEO of Bike King and director of TRAP.

The second leg is set on July 1-3 billed as the Tour of Subic while the final leg will be the Bike United Tour of Matabungkay on Oct. 21-23.

The MyLaps Pro Timing System is the official timer in the race that has Summit Media, Women’s Health, Men’s Health, Runner’s World and Philippine Star as media partners.

Action starts at 9 a.m. at the Subic Holiday Villas with entries in the men’s Category 3 being flagged off first.

The top three finishers in all categories will receive trophies while the fastest rider in Category 3 and 4 will bag the Sprint King title.

Participants will be provided with timing chips, post race snack, Pocari Sweat and Unilab Gift Pack.

CAREER GUIDANCE COACHING SEMINAR BY OLONGAPO PESO

The Public Employment Service Office (PESO) is conducting a Career Guidance Coaching Seminar at the Olongapo City National High School.

“This seminar is for 3rd year High School students to discover their abilities, probe into their interests and potentials, with a view to ensuring that they would make well informed decisions relative to their college course and professional future," said Lawyer Gene Vincent Perez, head of PESO.

Resource Speaker is Ms. Eloisa Mercado Labor Employment Officer II (Department of Labor and Employment) and assisted by other PESO personnel.

The activity started on Thursday, Feb. 17 and will last up to February 21, 2011.

Pao/fr

2011 ANNUAL VEHICLE INSPECTION

The annual vehicle inspection and evaluation of all public utility vehicles operating within the City of Olongapo has been set.

For tricycles, this will be on February 21 to April 7, 2011, Jeepneys on April 11 to June 9, 2011 and Mini-Buses June 10 to June 29, 2011 at Marikit Park Olongapo City from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Councilor James G. De Los Reyes, Chairman, Committee on Transportation and Traffic Management said, “The annual inspection and evaluation is in compliance with City Ordinance Nos. 3 and 4, Series of 1983 and No. 35, Series of 1991.

All operators are required to bring the following requirements during the inspection; Certificate of Public Convenience (CPC) for Jeepneys and Mini-Buses, Special Authority (SA) for Tricycle, LTO Certificate of Registration, LTO Official Receipt, Drivers License and Barangay Clearance of Operation.

Further information may be obtained from the Office of Traffic Management and Public Safety (OTMPS).

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Olongapo City - State of the Freeport Address 2011

The State of the Freeport Address (SOFA) is an annual event organized by the Subic Bay Freeport Chamber of Commerce.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ok4MDxOTQkw
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y44L_lols8o
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lZ7Zym-B83c

Olongapo City - Induction of SBFCC Officers

Induction of  Subic Bay Freeport Chamber of Commerce (SBFCC) Officers led by Hon. Armand C. Arreza,  SBMA Administrator & CEO on February 15, 2011 at Subic Bay Exhibition & Convention Center (SBECC).

2011 Board of Directors

President:           Prof. Danny J. Piano

V-President:       Tom DeBruin

Corp Secretary:   Atty. Romeo Duran

Treasurer:           Lawrence L. Lusung

Director:             Reimond B. Silvestre

Director:             Lewis Strickland

Director:             Jesus E. Avecilla

     

Olongapo City - SM in the Making (2-16-2011)

SM Olongapo in the making 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLYPO6DCVG4

Olongapo City - Baypointe Hospital and Medical Center

Situated at Moonbay Marina in Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Baypointe Hospital and Medical Center offers first class treatments to patients. For the comfort of patients, this health care establishment features a wellness center, private rooms as well as a conference room. The costs of treatments and consultations at this medical establishment are cheaper than the medical costs in other Subic Bay hospitals and health care facilities because medical professionals and physicians offer discounts. Patients have nothing to worry if they want to seek help from themedical staff and physicians at this place because they are competitive and reliable. Some of the medical doctors employed at this institution excel in the fields of general surgery, family medicine, pediatrics as well as emergency medicine.

http://www.philippinesinsider.com/philippines-health/subic-bay-hospitals-and-health-care/

Olongapo City - Kalaklan Gate is now open for pedestrians with valid SBMA ID's

Kalaklan Gate is now open for pedestrians with valid SBMA ID's daily from 7AM up to 9AM and from 4PM up to 6PM.

GORDON GOODWILL GAMES for R.A.C.E. (Responsive, Accessible, Courteous and effective Public Service)

Nasa kasagsagan na ang paghahanda ng pamahalaang lungsod para sa 3G (Gordon Goodwill Games) na nakatakdang ilunsad sa Marso 26, 2011, Sabado.

Ang City Sports at Youth Development Office (CSYDO) kasama ang Personnel Office ay naglalayong magtatag ng malakas at matagumpay na relasyon para sa mga kawani sa pamamagitan ng sports batay na rin sa programa ni Mayor James "Bong" Gordon, Jr.

"Inaasahang sa pamamagitan ng torneo ay maitataguyod ang pakikipag-kaibigan, sportsmanship, pagpapahalaga sa pangangatawan at personal na kaayusan sa bawat empleyado," ayon kay Ryan Marvin S. Mabeza, hepe ng CSYDO.

"Lahat ng contractual at permanenteng empleyado ng Olongapo City hall na kabilang sa 2011 List of Employees ng Personnel Office ay maaaring lumahok," sinabi ni Angie Socorro S. Barroga ng Personnel Office.

Ang mga nais lumahok sa aktibidad ay maaaring magsumite ng Registration/Roster Form bago o sa Marso 03, 2011 o tumawag sa numero bilang 0999-719-1219.

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MANGROVE REFORESTATION 2011

The Agriculture Office of Olongapo City has initiated planting four hundred (400) propagules of mangroves to cover 1,000 sq. m. along the channel at Bgy. New Banicain, Olongapo City.

Biology students from Ateneo de Manila University joined the activity which was also participated in by the City Mayor’s Office, DENR (Department of Environment and Natural Resources), Maritime Group and DILG (Department of Interior and Local Government).

PNP (Philippine National Police) personnel, CENRO (Commission on Environment and Natural Resources Office, CFARMC (City Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Parks and Plaza, ESMO, PAO-Public Affairs Office, CPDO (City Planning and Development Office), Fire Fighters, also, Bgy. New Banicain, Military Reservists and ROTC students also supported the activity.

Leonardo Sibaluca, DENR-7 Regional Director in an interview said, “we want to ensure the integrity of our coastal clean-up activities."

“Mangrove is a type of forest growing along tidal mud-flats and along shallow water coastal areas extending inland along rivers, streams and their tributaries where the water is generally salty,” he added.

According to DENR 1995 statistics, conversion to fishponds prawn farms, salt pond, reclamation and other forms of industrial development has reduced the mangrove area to 117,700 hectares.

"Mangroves provide nursery grounds for fish, prawn and crabs, and support fisheries production in coastal waters," said Jhobal Sebarrotin, city agriculturist.

"They also protect the environment and coastal areas and communities from storm surges, waves, tidal currents and typhoons," he added.

The main importance of Mangroves is that it purifies water, reduce air pollution, according to Baby Sebial, DENR representative of Olongapo City and Zambales.

Sibaluca said, “we want to convey the message that mangrove provide shelter for local and migratory wildlife and serve as roosting and forging grounds that is why we really have to protect them.”

Mayor James “Bong” Gordon Jr. is encouraging Olongapeños to be active in planting mangrove trees to revive the beauty of nature to attract visitors to come which will boost tourism in the city.

This activity is in line with Mayor James “Bong” Gordon Jr.’s project HELPS.

“To stabilize the river bank to avoid soil erosion and revive the lovely nature of the city, we should plant and take care and monitor mangrove trees," according to Sebarrotin.

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Olongapo City - Mass Wedding 2011

Two hundred sixty (260) couples said "I do" in unison at the mass wedding ceremonies officiated by Olongapo City Mayor James “Bong” Gordon, Jr. on Valentine’s Day, February 14, 2011 at the Olongapo City Convention Center (OCCC).