SUBIC BAY FREEPORT — The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority and the Hellenic ASEAN Business Council (HABC) have formalized a strategic partnership through a memorandum of understanding to enhance economic cooperation and growth between Greece and the Philippines.
The MOU was signed on Sept. 17 here by SBMA chairman and administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño and HABC chairman Nick Stasinopoulos. The agreement aims to promote bilateral trade, investment, tourism, logistics, maritime cooperation, infrastructure development, and sustainable economic growth, leveraging active engagement from both private sectors and institutional partners.
This collaboration will spotlight investment opportunities within the Subic Bay Freeport and facilitate business matching, trade delegations, and commercial ventures in key sectors. Specific areas of focus include shipbuilding, ship repair, port operations, logistics, marine maintenance, tourism, cruise terminal development, and waterfront enhancements.
“Subic Bay has evolved into one of the Philippines’ premier investment and economic hubs,” said Aliño. “We are proud to welcome HABC and the broader Hellenic business community as partners in this promising new chapter. This agreement represents a shared commitment to fostering enduring ties that will benefit both our nations for years to come.”
Stasinopoulos emphasized the significance of the pact, noting, “Today’s signing marks a vital milestone in strengthening the relationship between Greece and the Philippines. Our partnership builds on ongoing dialogues, visits, and direct exchanges between both sides.”
Highlighting the maritime sector’s role, he added, “The synergy between our countries is undeniable — Greece is home to the world’s largest maritime communities, while the Philippines is a key contributor to the global maritime workforce. Subic Bay has emerged as a crucial maritime and economic hub, integrating port operations, logistics, manufacturing, and investment.”
The HABC chairman outlined the council’s objectives under the agreement: “We aim to facilitate greater exchanges between Greek and Philippine maritime stakeholders, identify mutual investment opportunities, foster business partnerships, and encourage the sharing of knowledge and expertise.”
Five companies have already expressed interest in investing within the SBFZ,
including ERMA Tech Group, a global leader in sustainable maritime technologies specializing in decarbonization, water and wastewater treatment, and marine equipment solutions.
Also among the interested investors is Fontanakis Ship Repair, a Piraeus-based Greek company specializing in ship repairs, dry-docking services, engineering studies, and yacht building and restoration. Press release
