SUBIC BAY FREEPORT — The Arizona State Legislature is exploring potential partnerships with the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) to deepen understanding of the Philippines and strengthen Philippine-US relations.

During a visit to the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Arizona State Representative Tony Rivero said the state is exploring economic development opportunities. He noted that the chairman of Arizona’s international relations committee initiated the visit after meeting the Philippine ambassador in Washington in 2017.

SBMA officials led by Senior Deputy Administrator for Business and Investment Renato Lee III welcomed the US delegation, which included Committee on Science and Technology Representative Justin Wilmeth; Democrat from District 11 Rep. Junelle Cavero; Democrat from District 22 Rep. Elda Luna-Najera; and Democrat from District 24 Rep. Lydia Hernandez.

Also part of the delegation were Phoenix Committee on Foreign Relations Operations Manager Maria Monserrat Apud, Department of Foreign Affairs Principal Assistant at the Office of American Affairs Miguel Antonio Gonzales, and other officials from the Arizona State Legislature.

Lee cited the visit as a testament to the strong relationship between the Philippines and the United States.

Third District of Bataan Representative Maria Angela “Gila” Garcia accompanied the delegation, highlighting the many ecozones in Central Luzon that Arizona lawmakers could explore, including the Freeport Area of Bataan.

The visit focused on economic and educational collaborations. Lawmakers from both the Republican and Democratic parties expressed interest in partnership opportunities.

“We want to establish a trade office to facilitate business investments between Arizona and the Philippines. This is a historical moment due to shared history and potential future collaborations in international trade,” Rivero said.

Rivero emphasized workforce and educational ties to support future growth, noting the strategic importance of the Philippines in the regional context. The delegation also discussed regional security challenges with the Philippine Coast Guard.

After the formal discussions, the delegation toured the Subic Bay Freeport up to the Redondo Peninsula, home to Agila Subic, and expressed admiration for how business and environmental sustainability coexist in the area.