The Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan (AFAB) was cited as a Key Strategic Trade Partner during the Strategic Trade Management (STM) Week held at the Fairmont Hotel in Makati City.

On a social media post on 28 November 2025, the AFAB received the award from former Executive Secretary and Chief Justice of the Supreme Court Hon. Lucas Bersamin, along with Department of Trade and Industry’s International Trade Group Trade Undersecretary Allan Gepty.

The recognition was conferred during the culminating ceremony of STM Week 2025 organized by the DTI.

Francis Anthony Emata, Division Manager of AFAB’s Enterprise Assistance Division (EAD), received the award on behalf of the Authority. AFAB was commended for its leadership in promoting and implementing Strategic Trade Management initiatives within the Freeport Area of Bataan (FAB). Also in attendance was Reprym Lloyd Mendoza, Document Examiner III of the EAD. The division leads the development and implementation of STM regulations across the FAB.

Established in 2015, the Strategic Trade Management Act ensures the responsible trade of strategic and dual-use goods, guarding against misuse while supporting national and global security.

AFAB’s recognition highlights its vital role in advancing strategic trade in the Philippines and reinforces the country’s commitment to maintaining a secure and responsibly managed trade environment.

STM Week is an annual event, primarily hosted in the Philippines by the DTI’s Strategic Trade Management Office (STMO), that promotes the responsible trade of strategic goods to prevent the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction while facilitating economic growth.

This year’s event marked the 10th anniversary of Republic Act No. 10697, also known as the Strategic Trade Management Act (STMA), and served as a platform to reaffirm the country’s commitment to international obligations, including the UN Security Council Resolution 1540.