Subic Bay Freeport Revenue Shares Drop in 2025
The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) recently distributed P197.85 million in revenue shares to neighboring local government units (LGUs) for the first half of 2025. This amount reflects a slight decrease compared to the P204.7 million shared during the same period last year. The reduction in Subic Bay Freeport revenue shares is mainly linked to recent tax policy changes.
SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose Aliño clarified that the Department of Finance’s (DOF) new tax arrangements have impacted the funds distributed. “The decrease is primarily due to the implementation of a 25 percent tax remitted to the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR),” Aliño said. Additionally, the SBMA lost its previous 5 percent tax privilege, which had partly funded the LGUs.
How Tax Changes Affect Subic Bay Freeport Revenue Shares
Before the tax change, the 5 percent privilege tax was divided so that 3 percent went to the BIR, while 2 percent was allocated as revenue shares to the surrounding LGUs. Now, with this privilege revoked, the SBMA’s share to the LGUs has lessened. Despite this, the SBMA remains committed to its biannual distribution schedule.
Since August 2010, the authority has been releasing revenue shares twice a year—covering January to June collections in August, and July to December collections in February. This steady support continues to fund vital community projects across eight neighboring towns.
Distribution of Revenue Shares to Neighboring LGUs
Olongapo City, the largest beneficiary since 2011, received P46.27 million this cycle. Subic town in Zambales followed with P29.68 million, then Dinalupihan in Bataan with P24.64 million. Other recipients include San Marcelino (P23.76 million), Hermosa (P21.18 million), Castillejos (P17.99 million), Morong (P17.49 million), and San Antonio (P16.82 million).
These funds support a wide range of programs, from tourism and infrastructure to education, health, peace and order, and livelihood initiatives. Local leaders noted that the assistance especially aids over 785,000 residents, including families affected by recent natural disasters.
SBMA’s Commitment to Community Growth
Aliño emphasized the SBMA’s dedication to advancing the Freeport’s development. “Rest assured that we will do our best to make progress in the Freeport so that our neighboring LGU partners will also benefit, including the 166,000 Freeport workers who chose to work here instead of working abroad,” he said. This highlights the agency’s role in fostering regional growth and providing livelihood opportunities.
Local sources said the SBMA’s continued support remains crucial for sustaining social services and promoting economic resilience in the area.
For more news and updates on Subic Bay Freeport revenue shares, visit Filipinokami.com.
