SUBIC BAY FREEPORT — The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) and the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) have formalized a strategic partnership to position the Port of Subic Bay as the preferred maritime gateway for the Pax Silica initiative, a move aimed at strengthening the country’s logistics network and supporting the growth of the artificial intelligence (AI) and semiconductor industries.
The agreement, signed by BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Joshua M. Bingcang and SBMA Chairman and Administrator Engr. Eduardo Jose L. Aliño, establishes a framework for both agencies to jointly assess and promote the Port of Subic Bay as the primary entry and exit point for silica, advanced technology inputs, and other high-value products needed for the development of the country’s emerging AI and semiconductor ecosystem.
Under the partnership, BCDA and SBMA will conduct collaborative studies, share data, and undertake joint technical assessments to enhance logistics connectivity, improve supply chain efficiency, and identify opportunities for investment and regional economic growth.
Bingcang emphasized the strategic value of the Port of Subic Bay in supporting the initiative.
“For the Pax Silica initiative, the Port of Subic Bay offers a strategic advantage. It serves as a critical gateway that enables the efficient movement of raw materials into the country and the timely delivery of finished products to customers,” he said.
The collaboration seeks to maximize the port’s strategic location and modern facilities to support logistics, cargo handling, import and export operations, data integration, and other critical supply chain requirements of the initiative.
The partnership also aligns with the Marcos administration’s whole-of-government approach to infrastructure development and investment promotion by strengthening the integration of ports, industrial hubs, and technology-driven investments.
The initiative will reinforce the Luzon Economic Corridor by enhancing connectivity among key economic centers while supporting industries that generate quality employment and long-term economic opportunities for Filipinos.
Also present during the signing ceremony were SBMA Senior Deputy Administrator for Operations Ronnie Yambao and BCDA Senior Vice President for Legal Services Atty. Diana Joyce N. Basco-Galera.
The agreement underscores the commitment of BCDA and SBMA to build globally competitive logistics infrastructure that will help position the Philippines as a strategic hub for advanced manufacturing, semiconductor production, and other high-value industries in the region.