Subic Freeport to host INAP general assembly

CLARK FREEPORT -Subic Bay Freeport is set to host the International Network of Affiliated Ports (INAP) General Assembly and Symposium 2024 this October.

INAP and Port of Kochi officials, led by Chief Takanori Asai, paid a courtesy visit to Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño.

Aliño said the agency and INAP are discussing plans to hold the conference here.

The event is anchored on environmental maritime protection and disaster preparedness.

“As one of the founding members of INAP, it will be our honor to host this year’s assembly and welcome old and new faces to our shores. We endeavor to showcase not only our port and maritime facilities, but more importantly, to extend our famous hospitality, culture, and friendship,” Aliño said.

He cited that environmental maritime protection and disaster preparedness is a timely topic to discuss.

INAP members include the Port of Colombo in Sri Lanka, Port of Dangjin and Mokpo New Port in South Korea, Port of Kochi in Japan, Port of Qingdao in China, Port of Tanjung Perak in Indonesia, Port of Chittagong in Bangladesh, and Port of Subic Bay, Port of Cebu, and Port of Davao (Philippine Ports Authority) in the Philippines.

SBMA Senior Deputy Administrator for Operations Ronnie Yambao asked Deputy Administrator for Port Operations Martin Kristoffer Roman to take the lead in organizing the symposium, including the approval of the theme and program itinerary.

He added that the two-day was tentatively set on October 23 and 24.

The event will commence with the general assembly on the first day and a day tour around Subic Bay Freeport.

Aliño said that it has been ten years since the SBMA hosted the INAP General Assembly and Symposium.

He said it will be beneficial for the delegates to see the new facilities and developments in the

Port of Subic.

“The last time Subic Bay Freeport hosted INAP was in November of 2014 wherein more than 200 invited guests from the maritime industry attended the conference. Hopefully, more guests will arrive to take part in the general assembly,” Aliño said.

Founded in 1998, INAP was formed to promote cooperation and information exchange among affiliated ports, enhancing the port network, integrating individual affiliates, exchanging information on port development, and strengthening economic and cultural relationships.