Subic Sun

LET YOUR CHILD STEP INTO THE SPOTLIGHT AT SM LITTLE STARS 2026
The home of the next generation of icons

MANILA, 4th June 2026 — Calling all kids and parents! SM Supermalls’ search for the brightest young talents is back.

SM Supermalls invites kids aged 4 to 7 to join SM Little Stars 2026, where they can sing, dance, perform, and confidently take the stage.

Now in its 17th year, the program has helped launch the journeys of some of the country’s promising young performers.

"Every child deserves a chance to discover what makes them shine.Through SM Little Stars, we want to give kids a fun, encouraging space where they can express themselves, build confidence, and create unforgettable memories,” said Hanna Carinna T. Sy, SM Supermalls assistant vice president for marketing and leasing.

"SM Little Stars has always been about more than talent, it's about helping children believe in themselves, step out with confidence, and enjoy being on stage,” Sy said.

SM Little Stars 2026 will crown two Grand Winners: the Grand Shining Star, for outstanding talent that lights up the stage and wins hearts, and the Grand Dazzling Star, for charm, confidence, and stage presence that captivates audiences.

"This year, we are making SM Little Stars more inclusive by celebrating how children shine, through their talent, personality, and presence, because every child’s light is unique and worth celebrating,”Sy added.

Beyond the competition, SM Little Stars is a journey of discovery where kids can explore their talents, build confidence, and share meaningful experiences with fellow young performers.

The SM Little Stars 2026 preliminaries will run on weekends from May 30 to July 5, followed by regional rounds on July 11, 12, 18, and 19. The Grand Finals will be on August 8, 2026, at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall.

As part of the Gala To The Max campaign, the program will be staged across 68 SM Supermalls nationwide, with SM City La Union and SM City Zamboanga joining as new participating malls.

This year's Grand Finals judges include singer and host Karylle, filmmaker Antoinette Jadaone, OPM hitmaker Jonathan Manalo, choreographer Angel Datanagan, and Marcus Cabais, SM Little Stars 2016 Grand Winner.
Last year, Xian Echo Zamora of SM City Cabanatuan impressed audiences with his drumming and singing performance, continuing the legacy of standout young performers discovered through SM Little Stars.

Over the years, the program has helped nurture talents such as Star Magic artist Esang de Torres, boy group member Marcus Cabais, UNIS member Elisia Parmisano, and musical theater performer Sheena Bentoy.

"At your most-loved SM Supermalls, we believe every child deserves a stage where they can express themselves freely, have fun, and be celebrated for who they are," Sy said.

From first-time performers to future stars, SM Little Stars 2026 invites kids nationwide to join a maxed-out experience filled with fun, friendship, discovery, and unforgettable moments.

Schedule of audition at SM City Olongapo Central will be on June 7 and June 28, 2026.

Parents can register via the SM Malls Online App, www.smsupermalls.com/smlittlestars/, or at the Mall Administration Office.
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The IRONMAN Philippines and IRONMAN 70.3 will be held in Subic Bay on June 7, 2026 (Sunday).

The Tipo to Dinalupihan section of SCTEX Northbound (going to Tarlac/Manila) will be temporarily closed from 12:00 AM to 2:00 PM. One zipper lane in the Subic-bound direction will be opened for Tarlac/Manila-bound motorists.

Heavy traffic is expected in the area during the event. Motorists are encouraged to load their RFID accounts and plan their trips in advance.

Traffic personnel will be deployed, and directional signs will be placed in strategic locations.

For event details, please visit: https://www.ironman.com/races/im-Philippines

Source: NLEX Corporation

IRONMAN Subic Bay Philippines Join IRONMAN 70.3 Subic Bay Philippines for an unforgettable triathlon experience. Swim 1.9km in the calm waters of Subic Bay, bike 90km through the scenic and hilly SCTEX expressway, and run a flat 21.1km course lined with cheering spectators. Set in a vibrant coastal destination with rich history....

Aussie ambassador sees Subic's role in Luzon Economic Corridor

Subic Bay Freeport – Australian Ambassador to the Philippines Marc Innes-Brown visit with Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) officials on June 2, 2026, as part of a high-level discussion regarding the role of Subic Bay Freeport in the Luzon Economic Corridor (LEC).

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño welcomed the ambassador and his delegation at the SBMA Administration Building to discuss a strategic partnership to expand Australia's economic footprint in the Philippines, alongside initial trilateral partners such as the United States and Japan.

According to a presentation by Senior Deputy Administrator for Port Operations Ronnie Yambao, the SBMA infrastructure plans for the LEC would boost the economy of the Freeport zone, as it is the best option for companies investing in the said economic corridor.

Yambao also presented the railway project that will connect Subic Bay Freeport to the rest of the LEC, providing seamless cargo handling to and from the Freeport.

Innes-Brown recently announced that Australia officially joined the LEC partnership in May 2026 as a new major partner. Australia is backing the massive infrastructure initiative to boost economic ties, enhance regional connectivity, and support resilient global supply chains.

Originally launched as a trilateral project between the Philippines, the United States, and Japan, the corridor connects four strategic hubs in Luzon: Subic Bay, Clark, Manila, and Batangas.

Australia, alongside several other international powers, joined a broad expansion to accelerate investments across these areas.

Among the commitments and contributions of Australia for the LEC partnership, one significant and highly doable initiative is the country- led financial mobilization strategy, wherein investments will be directed towards critical projects, through Australia’s dedicated Manila Deal Team.

The country has offered framework support and expertise under Australia's specialized Partnerships for Infrastructure program, and has committed AUD 45 million (PHP 1.9 billion) for the bilateral economic initiative named PROGRESS to fuel sustainable regional growth. (30)

PHOTO CAPTION:
[1] Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño and Australian Ambassador to the Philippines Marc Innes-Brown meet in a high-level discussion regarding the Subic Freeport’s role in the Luzon Economic Corridor at the SBMA Corporate Boardroom on June 2, 2026.

[2] Australian Ambassador to the Philippines Marc Innes-Brown flashes, with a delighted smile, a couple of mangoes from the box gifted by Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño.

SUBIC FREEPORT GATE ON 14TH STREET REOPENS TO TRAFFIC

NEW KALALAKE, OLONGAPO CITY — After being closed for three months, the Subic Bay Freeport Zone on 14th Street has reopened for motorists.

On June 1, 2026, the access point to and from the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, popularly called SBMA-14th Gate, again opened to the public.

It was closed for three months for construction work as part of an ongoing major road repair and rehabilitation project of SBMA, which apparently started in 2021.

It was during the time of SBMA chairman Atty Wilma Eisma, that the "Argonaul Highway-14th Street segment of Rizal Highway" project was first initiated. Infrastructure and construction work on 14th-Gate area started this year.

"Finally! Tagal ding sarado yan eh," said a security guard working at one Subic locator firm. "Isa yan sa main access points papasok/palabas ng Freeport, so naging inconvenient din para sa amin ang pagsasara niya ng ilang buwan."

14th-Gate is considered one of the main gateways to the Freeport. Hundreds of Freeport workers live around neighborhoods in the area. These workers and othercommuters enter and exit SBFZ through this route.

The reopening of the said road is expected to improve access to the Freeport and ease the traffic caused by rerouting, said the Olongapo Traffic Management and Public Safety Office. (30)

by Percy Roxas

SM SUPERMALLS EXPANDS NATIONWIDE PUSH FOR CYCLING THROUGH BIKE-FRIENDLY FACILITIES AND ACTIVE MOBILITY INITIATIVES

MANILA, Philippines - Since the energy crisis, many Filipinos have been exploring alternative modes of transport and rediscovering the benefits of cycling—whether for daily commutes, quick errands, or weekend leisure rides. All for cyclists across the country, SM is making it sustainable to choose two wheels over four at their most-loved SM Supermalls.

Designed with convenience in mind, many SM malls offer bike-friendly infrastructure and facilities that support riders who prefer a greener way to travel. From safe, dedicated bike lanes and accessible bike parking areas to convenient entrances and cyclist-friendly amenities, SM continues to welcome riders who want to make cycling part of their everyday routine.

“At SM Supermalls, cyclists can also easily stop by to park their bikes, enjoy a meal, run errands, or meet friends before heading back on the road. Whether it’s a quick stop during a weekday commute or a longer visit during a weekend ride, SM malls provide a convenient hub for riders looking to recharge and relax,” Mina Kahn, SM Division Head and Assistant Vice President for Transportation Management. “All SM malls are equipped with bike facilities both indoor and outdoor, with a total of 823 bike parking areas and over 6,400 slots. There is also a total of 92 bike repair stations available across all SM locations, in case of assistance needed.”

Empowering Biking Communities

For commuters, cycling can be both a practical and low-cost solution to navigating traffic. It promotes a healthier lifestyle while reducing carbon emissions—making it a sustainable choice for urban mobility.

That is why on top of in-mall features and facilities for cyclists, SM Supermalls also hosts biking activities that further encourage and empower cycling communities while serving as platforms for connection and engagement.

To celebrate World Bicycle Day, SM Supermalls will organize its annual Pedal Power event on June 6 across its nationwide network of most-loved Supermalls. The cycling event assembles and supports cycling communities through community bike rides and bike clinics that aim to build camaraderie and deeper appreciation for active mobility. This year, The Podium will also be hosting a special cycling learning activity through SM Cares’ Book Nook.
As part of the SM Green Movement, SM continues to champion active mobility in support of its broader commitment to building spaces that are accessible, sustainable, empowering, and inclusive for the communities it serves.
Through SM Pedal Power, participating malls across the country are helping make everyday mobility more sustainable and community friendly. These include SM City Marikina, SM City Masinag, SM City San Mateo, SM Center Antipolo Downtown, SM City San Lazaro, SM City Clark, SM City Olongapo Central, SM City Rosario, SM City Lucena, SM Seaside City Cebu, and The Podium.

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About SM Supermalls
SM Supermalls is evolving—shaping how people live, connect, and experience life today. More than a place to shop, it is the country’s most loved mall and an everyday destination designed around the lifestyles, passions, and needs of Filipino communities, delivering new finds, fresh concepts, and meaningful experiences, All For You.

As one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators, with 89 malls in the Philippines and 9 in China, SM Supermalls continues to evolve its spaces, experiences, and partnerships, building destinations that grow with communities and remain trusted, relevant, and loved for generations. Your Most Loved Supermall, SM — All For You.

About SM Cares
As the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, SM Cares is focused on enriching the lives of Filipinos through socially-conscious and environmentally-responsible programs meant to Empower Communities into long-lasting, impactful improvement.

39 NA ARAW MATAPOS ANG AKSIDENTENG KUMITIL SA BUHAY NG 38-TAONG GULANG NA TRICYCLE DRIVER SA SUBIC, HUMIHINGI PA RIN NG HUSTISYA ANG KANYANG PAMILYA

SUBIC, ZAMBALES – Tatlumpung siyam na araw matapos mamatay si Jerry Arcilla sa isang kalunos-lunos na salpukan ng kanyang tricycle at isang truck sa Subic, Zambales, patuloy pa ring umaasa ang pamilya nito na makakamit nila ang hustisya para sa kanya.

Si Arcilla, 38, binata, at sinasabing isa sa mga breadwinner ng pamilya, ay namatay mga 9:35 ng gabi noong Abril 23, 2026, nang ang kanyang tricycle ay nasalpok ng isang truck ng Aim High Logistics, isang trucking company na pag-aari ni Ranildo Maningding.

Ayon kay Josefa Arcilla Estigoy, kapatid ng biktima, bagama’t may natanggap silang kaunting tulong mula sa trucking company – Php10,000 mula sa Aim High Logistics, ayon sa isang naunang social media report at Php5,000 mula sa driver ng truck na si Hector Macapagal, sabi ni Josefa --– iyon ay ginamit na sa mga gastusin sa ospital, punerarya at pagpapalibing.

“Wala na kaming natanggap mula sa kanila bukod doon, kahit may mga ipinangako sa amin,” sabi ni Josefa. “Mabuti na lamang at may tulong kaming natanggap mula kina Mayor Jon Khonghun at Congressman Jay Khonghun.”

Si Josefa umano ay pumirma ng affidavit of settlement sa opisina ni Atty. Dorentino Floresta na nagsasabing “hindi na sila magsasampa ng kaso laban sa driver na si Macapagal, matapos itong mangako na siya ang bahala sa lahat ng gagastusin ng mga namatayan sa ospital, burol at libing ni Jerry.”

Walang nabanggit kung magkano ang ibibigay ng driver o iaambag ng trucking company sa mga namatayan. “Hindi ko na din naisip ito,” sabi naman ni Josefa, “kasi po ang isip ko ay maisayos ang libing ng kapatid ko at ang magkaroon na ng closure.”

“Nakakapagod na rin sa tutuo lang,” sabi Josefa sa media na hiningian nila ng tulong upang linawin ang mga isyung kumakalat sa social media at patahimikin ang ala-ala ng namatay.

“Hindi na nga kami naghahabol sa lahat ng ipinangako nila, yun man lang sanang pambayad sa mga nautang ko ng papuntahin ko dito sa Subic ang mga kamag-anak namin mula sa Bicol para makita nila si Jerry sa kanyang huling sandali.”

Hindi daw salapi ang motibo nila sa pagkausap sa media, aniya pa, kundi “upang maisalba pa ang natitirang dignidad ng namatay na kapatid at pamilya.”

Ayon pa kay Josefa, “Masakit ang mga statements na nanggagaling sa kampo ng Aim High Logistics, lalo na ang pagdidiin nila na kasalanan lang ng kapatid ko ang nangyari dahil lasing daw ito habang nagmamaneho ng gabing iyon.”

“Hindi naman na siguro kailangan pang ulit-ulitin ito para lang maibunton lahat ng sisi sa kanya,” dagdag ni Josefa. “Patay na yung tao, pero patuloy pa rin nilang sinisiraan at sinisisi para lang pagtakpan yung mga responsibilidad ng trucking company.” Ipinakita ni Josefa sa media ang mga social posts sa FB bilang patunay.

Umapela si Josefa na sana’y huwag ilihis ng trucking company ang mga isyu at bagkus ay harapin ang kanilang responsibilidad sa pangyayari.

Hindi pa namin nahihingi ang komento ng driver o nimuman sa Aim High Logistics habang sinusulat ang balitang ito.

Ang balitang ito ay “developing story.” (30)

Photo CTTO: Zambales Today

SBMA receives patient transport vehicle from PAGCOR

Subic Bay Freeport – Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) recently received a patient transport vehicle from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR).

During a ceremony held in Pasay City on May 26, 2026, PAGCOR president and chief operations officer (COO) Atty. Wilma T. Eisma turned over the patient transport vehicle to SBMA Public Health and Safety Department (PHSD) Medical Services Division OIC, Dr. Arlene Gravina-Cesa.

“My heartfelt thanks to PAGCOR, especially to Chairman Alejandro H. Tengco, for providing the Freeport with a patient transport vehicle. This unit will certainly enhance the services of our Public Health and Safety Department (PHSD) during the scheduled, non-emergency transfer of clinically stable patients,” SBMA chairman and administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño said in gratitude to PAGCOR.

“Kay Mam Amy (Eisma), marami pong salamat at hindi pa rin kayo nakakalimot sa iyong dating tahanan, ang SBMA,” he said.

The donation is part of the agency’s broader efforts to make basic healthcare more accessible, ensuring that communities and sectors in need, are able to receive urgent medical attention through these new patient transport vehicles.

“More than simply meeting targets, it reflects a clear commitment: to support healthier, more resilient communities by investing in essential services people rely on when it matters most,” Aliño said.

The donation is one of many under PAGCOR’s ongoing nationwide program to distribute medical transport vehicles.

PAGCOR has also donated patient transport vehicles to the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (two vehicles), Bureau of Corrections (BuCor), and the local government units of Manay, Davao; Narra, Palawan; and Dumaguete. (30)

PHOTO CAPTIONS:
[1] PAGCOR) president and COO Atty. Wilma T. Eisma (3rd from left) hands over the ceremonial key to SBMA Public Health and Safety Department (PHSD) Medical Services Division OIC Dr. Arlene Gravina-Cesa during the turnover ceremony.

[2-4] Atty. Eisma leads the SBMA Public Health and Safety Department (PHSD) contingents in inspecting the donated transport vehicle.

SM OBSERVES NATIONAL FLAG DAY 2026

On May 28, 2026, SM City Olongapo Central and SM City Olongapo Downtown held a solemn morning flag-raising ceremony to officially mark the start of National Flag Day and Independence Day countdown.

Mall management, tenant partner and security and agency personnel, gathered at the perimeter area and ground level to witness the standard unfurling of the Philippine flag.

The ceremony honors the historic 1898 anniversary of the flag first flying in battle, signaling the community's shared pride, heritage, and unity.

The national colors will remain on display throughout the mall until Independence Day on June 12.

DepEd honors AboitizPower for empowering Bataan learners

MANILA, Philippines — AboitizPower, through its private limited partnerships GNPower Mariveles Energy Center (GMEC) and GNPower Dinginin (GNPD), was recently honored by the Department of Education (DepEd) for its steadfast support in uplifting Philippine education, particularly in the province of Bataan.

Recognized during the DepEd Partners’ Appreciation Program on May 8, 2026, the award highlights the enduring impact of the companies’ corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs. The ceremony, themed “Partnerships that Endure. Reforms that Last,” was attended by Education Secretary Sonny Angara and celebrated stakeholders who have made significant contributions to the success of Filipino learners.

“Our partnership with each one of you is a continuous crossing,” Angara said during his keynote message. “It meets the learner in doubt, the teacher in transition, and the community in need. And with each step, it changes direction.”

“Indeed, education is a shared mission and nation-building begins when we choose to work together,” he added.

For GMEC and GNPD, education is the foundation of a resilient community, and their CSR begins with strengthening the basics of literacy. Through the Eskwelasugan Program, the companies recently conducted an intensive teacher-training session for educators from 15 supported schools across Bataan. By implementing the Alpabasa literacy method, the initiative ensures that teachers are better equipped to help young students master reading and comprehension, providing them with a stronger start in their academic journeys.

“This recognition is a reminder that when government, communities, and private organizations work together, we can truly change the lives of young Filipinos,” said Joseph Paolo Mendoza, GMEC-GNPD Reputation and Stakeholder Management (RSM) manager.

Beyond the classroom, AboitizPower also worked to close the digital gap in underserved areas through the AuroraPH initiative. In collaboration with the Aboitiz Foundation, Inc. (AFI) and partners like Starlink and Huawei, GMEC and GNPD brought sustainable solar power and high-speed internet connectivity to the Biaan Aeta Integrated School. This project is a flagship effort to support "last-mile" schools, helping students in even the most remote communities to have access to the technology and energy they need to participate in a modern, digital world. By providing these essential tools, the companies are helping to ensure that no learner is left behind due to geography.

The commitment to Bataan’s youth extends into higher education through a massive investment in the province’s future professionals. GMEC and GNPD have pledged ₱10 million over five years to the “Iskolar ng Bataan” program in partnership with the Provincial Government of Bataan (PGB). This past April, the companies turned over their latest ₱2 million installment to support 200 engineering students at local state universities. When combined with their own long-standing local scholarship program, which has already benefited over 200 students, it is clear that AboitizPower is dedicated to powering the dreams and careers of the next generation of Filipino leaders. # # #

Photo Caption:
Aboitiz Power Corporation GMEC and GNPD representatives Joseph Paolo Mendoza, RSM manager (right), and Abigail Jacinto, CSR program supervisor (left), pose for a photo with DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara during the DepEd Partners’ Appreciation Program held May 8, 2026.

SM SUPPORTS DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY'S O.N.E CAMPAIGN

SM City Olongapo Central, SM City Olongapo Downtown and the rest of SM malls support the Department of Energy Philippines' O.N.E.: Oras Natin sa Efficiency Campaign by turning off non-essential lights across SM Malls nationwide on May 25, 2026 from 8PM to 9PM.

The program promotes efficient energy use by encouraging organizations and the public to switch off non-essential lighting and reduce electricity consumption.

Through this initiative, SM reinforces its commitment to sustainability and responsible energy use. By taking part, SM aims to help raise awareness, encourage participation among tenants and customers, and contribute to strengthening the country's energy security.

The mall switched off the lights of the mall signage, façade, pylon towers, dropdown banners, landscaping, and related areas and minimize the lights by 50% in the mall hallways, lobbies, and perimeter.

By powering down facade lights and lowering interior brightness, SM helped reduce peak demand on national power grid. It's a meaningful habit that can result measurable impact on the countrys power system and long-term energy resilience. (30)