SUBIC BAY FREEPORT — The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) and Subic Water and Sewerage Company Inc. (SubicWater) have renewed their Franchise Agreement (FA) for another 20 years.

The renewal was formalized with the signing of the 3rd Amendment to the Franchise Agreement and the 4th Amendment to the SBMA-SubicWater Lease Agreement on 20 March at the SBMA Boardroom, Building 229. The new terms extend the agreement until 31 March 2047.

SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño expressed his satisfaction with the partnership, noting that it has been harmonious since its inception. He highlighted that the 3rd amendment will address several key goals, including achieving 100 percent wastewater coverage for the Franchise Area, stabilizing tariff rates, and revising certain provisions of the agreement.

The agreements were signed by chairman Aliño and SubicWater chairman Engr. Apollo C. Tiglao, with Olongapo City Mayor Rolen Paulino Jr. and SubicWater CEO and general manager Benjamin Antonio III witnessing the event.

Chairman Tiglao emphasized that under the amendment, SubicWater will strive to achieve complete wastewater coverage, which will include combined sewerage and sanitation services for both the Subic Bay Freeport and Olongapo City. This expansion will extend services to more remote areas of Subic Freeport, such as the Redondo Peninsula and Tipo, while also bringing wastewater services and sewer lines to Olongapo City.

Tiglao expressed his gratitude to the SBMA Board of Directors for supporting the extension, allowing SubicWater to continue its services and reach more customers.

Mayor Paulino also expressed his appreciation for the continued partnership, emphasizing the importance of expanding wastewater coverage in Olongapo City.