SBMA, HABC to boost economic growth between Philippines and Greece

Subic Bay Freeport – The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) and the Hellenic Asean Business Council (HABC) aims to boost the economic growth between Greece and the Philippines thru private sector and institutional engagement.

The said partnership was solidified during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño, and HABC Chairman Nick Stasinopoulos held at Building 255 here on 17 September 2026.

The said MOU aims to promote trade, investment, tourism, logistics, maritime cooperation, infrastructure, and sustainable economic growth between the two countries.

This includes promoting Subic Bay Freeport investment opportunities, facilitate business matching, trade delegations, and commercial partnership across priority sectors. The MOU also aims to encourage investments in shipbuilding, ship repair, ports, logistics, marine maintenance, tourism, cruise terminals, and waterfront development.

“Subic Bay has grown into one of the country’s leading centers for investment and economic activity, and we are glad to welcome HABC, and through it, the wider Hellenic business community, as partners in this next chapter,” SBMA Chairman Aliño said.

“This agreement reflects our shared interest in building ties that will benefit both our nations for years to come,” he added.

HABC Chairman Stasinopolous said, “For us at HABC, today’s signing marks an important step in strengthening the relationship between our two sides. Building on the dialogue, visits, and direct engagement that have already taken place.”

He furthered that the synergy between the two countries in the maritime sector is undeniable as Greece is the home of the world’s largest maritime communities, while Philippines is recognized for its contribution to the global maritime workforce.

“Subic Bay has developed into an important maritime and economic hub, bringing together port operations, logistics, manufacturing, and investment within the wider Freeport. The figures also reflect the growing activity,” he added.

He said that through this agreement, HABC hopes to facilitate greater exchange between Greek and Philippine maritime stakeholders, identify areas of mutual interest, facilitate investment in business partnership, and support the exchange of knowledge and expertise.

Five companies have already expressed their interest in investing inside the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, including ERMA Tech Group, a global leader in sustainable maritime technologies, offering solutions in decarbonization, water and wastewater treatment, and marine equipment.

Another company is the Fontanakis Ship Repair, a Greek maritime and shipbuilding company based in Piraeus, Greece. The company specializes in ship repairs and dry-docking; engineering studies; and yact building and restoration.

Meanwhile, the SBMA aims to collaborate with the Hellenic Port Association and learn best practices that promotes cooperation and international visibility of port system. Hellenic Port Association represents 26 major Greek port entities, including all 13 Port Authorities and 13 Port Funds.

The association coordinates national port policy, promotes industry best practices, and represents Greece’s maritime interests internationally. Based in Piraeus, the association serves as the unified voice of the Greek port sector.