By HENRY EMPEÑO

SUBIC BAY FREEPORT [March 30] — The adverse effects of the Covid-19 pandemic notwithstanding, the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) expects to pursue development goals this year and make best use of the evolving local and global economic situation, said Chairman and Administrator Wilma T. Eisma.

The Subic chief said the SBMA foresees more challenges this year aside from health concerns, but contended that the Subic agency is prepared to address difficulties with its action program that covers all areas of Subic operation.

“We will capitalize on opportunities under the new normal and find new ways to handle new problems,” Eisma said on Monday when asked about agency plans for 2021.

“While we foresee more difficulties ahead, as it appears Covid-19 won’t be eradicated anytime soon, our development program for Subic Freeport is intact, operational, and we are moving on,” she added.

Eisma has identified challenges the Subic Freeport faces this year in her recent State of the Freeport Address (SOFA). These are the continuing Covid-19 pandemic and the resulting weakened financial position of the SBMA; effects of Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises (CREATE) Law on businesses here; and the proposed cancellation of the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) that may adversely SBMA revenue.

However, she said the SBMA will meet problems head on through its 10-Point Development Agenda. “If we can’t change the direction of the wind, we can always adjust our sails to favor the ship and continue with our journey,” Eisma said. “Chance always favors those who are prepared.”

Under its policy reforms and good governance agenda, Eisma said the SBMA will update policies and best practices, and solidify partnership in the fight against Covid-19; intensify drive against corruption, illegal drugs, smuggling, and illicit trade; and lobby for laws that would provide broader revenue base.

For sustainable development, it will pursue better environmental management systems and health and safety standards; develop alternative water sources and improve sewage and septic facilities; and identify new revenue-generating measures.

For safety and security, it will come up with better monitoring and surveillance systems, upgrade perimeter security, and update hardware for law enforcement and fire protection; strengthen partnership with PNP, PDEA, NBI and other agencies and intensify drive for a drug-free Freeport.

Under community engagement, the agency will strengthen cooperation projects with local government units and stakeholder groups, and initiate more community-oriented projects and interaction.

For locator service excellence, SBMA will further cut red-tape, streamline processes, and promote better business; support locators with economic relief measures; and enhance Subic appeal to business.

To establish Subic Bay Freeport as gateway, it will upgrade facilities for air and sea ports, and set up modernization and marketing programs; and support government initiatives for better linkages with nearby economic zones and markets.

To promote foreign direct investments and micro, small and medium enterprise, it will develop new industrial and commercial areas; encourage new industry sectors and the shift to new business models; and closely work with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to give access and opportunities to MSME’s.

Under its tourism agenda, SBMA will establish Subic as the must-go destination for sports, pageants, conferences and other events under the “bubble” concept; promote Subic as tourism capital and capitalize on domestic tourism to revive local businesses.

For its Build-Build-Build program, it will replace decades-old public facilities; and support government projects like the Subic-Clark Railway to improve the viability of Subic as an economic growth center.

Finally, Eisma said the SBMA will develop a new Subic masterplan with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and study reclamation as strategy to address limited land spaces; develop Tipo and Redondo areas for industrial and commercial uses; and work with neighboring LGU’s to identify and develop expansion areas. ~

TOP PHOTO: A ship steams out of Subic port after taking in cargo