The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) has initiated a major step toward becoming the Philippines’ first smart, sustainbale economic zone by 2030 by piloting electric buses in its Central Business District. The project assessed the electric buses’ performance under real passenger conditions and verified their operational readiness before a full rollout of the Pure Battery Electric Bus (PBEB) project.

SBMA Deputy Administrator Armie Llamas said the week-long trial successfully assessed the efficiency, functionality, and support needs of the electric buses, which ran this week with no fares collected.

Llamas explained that the e-bus initiative forms part of SBMA’s wider effort to transition the Subic Bay Freeport Zone into a carbon-neutral port by 2030. At present, four electric buses are operating along the CBD route to assess charging capacity, route efficiency and passenger comfort.

Under the PBEB project, SBMA has earmarked ₱10 million (US$169,500) for the construction of new bus stops and the upgrade of existing ones. A total of 58 stops will be installed across the Freeport, eight within the CBD, 16 in the Cubi area, six near theme parks, 18 in the Binictican Housing area and 10 in the Kalayaan Housing area. These facilities are expected to be completed by December 2025.

SBMA received 10 electric buses in May this year, and one unit was initially road-tested with members of the SBMA Board prior to the dry run. The programme forms part of the agency’s “Race to Carbon Neutrality” campaign, which includes broader sustainability initiatives such as the ₱250 million (US$4.2 million) Carbon Neutral Port project, which provides shore power connections for vessels docking in Subic.

These ongoing initiatives in Subic Bay align with national priorities to accelerate the adoption of sustainable technologies nationwide. Earlier this year, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive development and sustainability, focusing on artificial intelligence (AI) and the circular economy.

This commitment includes crafting enabling policies and sustaining funding support to advance green and smart innovations that create jobs, expand livelihood opportunities and strengthen climate resilience.

DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr., speaking at the Regional Science, Technology and Innovation Week (RSTW) in Caraga, claimed that these are not passing trends, but vital lifelines for resilient and adaptive development. Particularly, in the face of climate change, rapid digitalisation and an increasingly competitive global landscape.

Furthermore, he emphasised the need to integrate AI tools and circular economy practices across local industries, noting that this would strengthen destination management, improve transparency and greatly enhance visitor experiences.

RSTW revolved around three strategic areas: Circular Economy, AI and Smart and Sustainable Communities. It was aimed at uplifting lives and building long-term socio-economic resilience.

A transition from the traditional “take, make, dispose” model towards a circular economy that maximises resource efficiency and reduces waste is critical. Current initiatives in Caraga support this shift, including the valorisation of mine tailings, ScrapCycle Technology and Project GreenWAVE in Siargao Island, which showcase how waste can be repurposed for construction, energy recovery and even carbon dioxide sequestration.

“We must scale these innovations, expand policy support and create green jobs that foster environmental and economic resilience. The United Nations estimates that transitioning to a global circular economy can generate US$4.5 trillion in economic benefits by 2030. The Philippines…must claim its share of that opportunity,” Solidum said.

Meanwhile, at the event, DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations Sancho A. Mabborang emphasised the importance of science, technology and innovation in building a sustainable and inclusive Caraga. Regional Director Noel M. Ajoc echoed this view, noting DOST-Caraga’s efforts to strengthen innovation ecosystems, advance manufacturing capabilities and develop smart communities.