Subic Bay Freeport — The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) won big at the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority’s (TESDA) 2025 National Kabalikat Awards held at the Philippine Trade and Training Center (PTTC) in Pasay City on 24 November 2025.

The government-owned and controlled corporation (GOCC) won under the Development Category for partnering with TESDA in Technical-Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and for uplifting communities within and beyond the Subic Bay Freeport Zone.

The award was received by Atty. Melvin Varias, Department Manager of the SBMA Labor Department and Officer-in-Charge of the SBMA Deputy Administrator for Legal Affairs office, on behalf of SBMA Chairman and Administrator Engr. Eduardo Jose L. Aliño.

“In behalf of the SBMA, I would like to thank the TESDA for this notable award, cementing our unwavering collaboration with them in nation building. We at SBMA hope to create more employment opportunities to the Filipino people,” he said.

According to TESDA Region 3, SBMA has assisted thousands of TVET graduates, jobseekers, and learners through career guidance, work immersion programs, and employment facilitation; and supported the hiring of over a thousand workers through partnerships with the private sector.

SBMA also provided extensive work immersion opportunities to senior high school TVL learners; established a modern training facility that strengthens skills development in the region; and sustained more than 10 flagship programs promoting workforce readiness, life skills, and industry collaboration.

The national government also hailed SBMA for maintaining over 28 years of active partnership with TESDA.

“SBMA’s unwavering dedication to workforce development and community upliftment embodies the true spirit of a Kabalikat partner. Congratulations, SBMA! Your commitment continues to transform lives and strengthen the region’s skilled workforce,” TESDA cited.