By: Dante Salvaña
Subic Bay Freeport — San Antonio, Zambales Mayor Dr. Arvin “Dok” Antipolo underscored the power of unity and community participation in driving local development as he served as resource speaker during the “Talakayan sa Freeport” held on April 29, 2026 at the Terrace Hotel.
Addressing stakeholders, local officials, and members of the media, Antipolo presented the municipality’s ongoing programs and long-term vision, emphasizing that San Antonio’s progress is not the work of a single person but a collective effort of its people.
“Everything we have achieved is a product of teamwork and the active participation of our community,” the mayor said, as he highlighted the town’s recognition through various awards, including its strong performance in health and governance programs.
Known as one of the top tourist destinations in Zambales, San Antonio recorded over 400,000 tourist arrivals last year. Antipolo said the local government continues to strengthen tourism through expanded activities, development of new resorts, and aggressive digital promotion to attract visitors despite challenges such as rising fuel prices.
Central to the town’s development is a plan to transform its town center into a more vibrant and welcoming hub for tourists. Among the projects nearing completion are the redesigned municipal hall façade and the enhancement of commercial establishments. A symbolic installation of “light pillars” now stands in the town proper, representing the municipality’s aspiration to uplift the lives of its residents.
To further boost tourism, the local government has also implemented a 24-hour operations policy for establishments, catering to travelers who arrive late at night and ensuring access to services at any hour.
San Antonio, Zambales Mayor Dr. Arvin Antipolo with stakeholders and members of the Zambales/Olongapo media during the Talakayan sa Freeport, held at the Terrace Hotel, Subic Bay Freeport Zone, on April 29, 2026.
Antipolo also highlighted major gains in healthcare, noting that the town’s Rural Health Unit (RHU) is now accredited by PhilHealth and participates in the YAKAP program. This has enabled the municipality to secure millions of pesos in funding, which were used to upgrade ambulances, procure modern medical equipment, and expand free healthcare services.
Beyond local initiatives, the mayor shared plans to collaborate with neighboring municipalities through a proposed Mid-Zambales Tourism Alliance. The initiative aims to connect various destinations across the province—from coastal resorts in San Antonio to inland attractions such as Mapanuepe Lake and Mount Pinatubo—offering a more comprehensive tourism experience.
On the economic front, Antipolo identified malunggay-based products as the town’s flagship under the One Town, One Product (OTOP) program. The locally produced “Shingaling,” along with other innovations, is being developed further for wider market reach, with support from national agencies.
The mayor also touched on ongoing efforts to assist local sectors affected by external factors, including fisherfolk and tourism workers, through coordination with national agencies and partners.
The Talakayan sa Freeport served as a venue for dialogue and exchange of best practices among local leaders, showcasing San Antonio’s model of governance anchored on unity, innovation, and inclusive growth.