On 11 February 2025, ANZCham successfully launched its first Monthly Members’ Meeting (MMM) of the year with a landmark event outside Metro Manila. Held at the Clark Marriott Hotel, “Investing in Clark and Subic – Why Businesses Need to Be There” drew strong attendance. This forward-thinking initiative to bring ANZCham members and attendees closer to emerging economic hubs was met with great enthusiasm, marking a promising start to the Chamber’s 2025 agenda.
This MMM was co-presented by Profitmaster Global Outsourcing, a leading financial solutions provider. With 11 years of investment in Clark and Subic, Profitmaster’s participation reinforced the importance of sound financial management and strategic investment in maximizing business opportunities in this region. Their insights set the stage for a deeper discussion on why the region is ripe for investment and growth.
ANZCham also extends its gratitude to Berthaphil, Inc., a leader in commercial, industrial, and residential property development in the Clark Freeport Zone, for being our event partner.
Among the key organizations present at the event was StB Giga, a major player in the region’s growing industrial landscape. As the “first LFP battery factory in the Philippines,” StB Giga is pioneering the future of renewable energy storage both locally and globally. StB Giga’s participation was a testament to their commitment to this initiative and to Clark’s growing role as a hub for energy innovation and sustainability in the Philippines.
Erwin Kenneth “Ken” Peralta of the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) delivered a compelling address, showcasing BCDA’s bold vision of “building great cities.” He detailed the ongoing and upcoming developments in Clark, including the expansion of Clark International Airport, the North-South Commuter Railway, and the development of new industrial and technology zones in New Clark City. Peralta also discussed the government’s push for leasehold-to-freehold land conversion, which is expected to encourage long-term foreign investment in the area.
Karen Magno of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) followed with an insightful presentation on Subic’s economic resurgence, helping position Subic as one of the country’s most competitive freeport zones. She emphasized Subic’s strategic location, tax incentives, and port infrastructure as key advantages for businesses looking to establish or expand operations in the Philippines, “for its endless possibilities and many business opportunities.” With the CREATE MORE Law, she highlighted that SBMA is now able to provide six to seven years of income tax holiday, followed by either 10 years of enhanced deduction or a special corporate income tax—further strengthening Subic’s appeal as a prime investment destination.
The heart of the event was the engaging panel discussion featuring Ken Peralta, Vice President of Investment Promotions and Marketing Department, BCDA; Karen Magno, Department Manager III, SBMA; Francis Ceballos, Senior Vice President, Filinvest; and Joey Roi Bondoc, Research Director, Colliers.
Moderated by Luisa Rust, Senior Trade Commissioner to the Philippines, AusTrade, the discussion delved into the practical advantages of investing in Clark and Subic, including economic trends, infrastructure readiness, and government support.
Jetstar Asia, this MMM’s major raffle sponsor, added an exciting element to the event with an address, emphasizing the airline’s commitment to strengthening connectivity between North Luzon and key international markets, “with low fares to enable more people to fly to more places, more often.” As a generous gesture, Jetstar sponsored a roundtrip ticket to Singapore, adding a touch of excitement to the event. Congratulations to the lucky winner, Andrew Willard, who now has the opportunity to explore one of Asia’s leading business and leisure destinations!
The event concluded on a high note, with lively conversations, new connections, and potential collaborations. As the Chamber continues its commitment to supporting business expansion in the Philippines, the first MMM of 2025 reaffirms ANZCham’s role as a bridge between opportunities and investors.
Here’s to a productive and prosperous year ahead! 🚀
