Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) authorities have inaugurated the newly-completed Magsaysay Bridge, a vital connection between Olongapo City and the Subic Freeport that is expected to further boost local economic activities.
The 72.5-meter multi-span bridge, which replaced the original structure that served the area during the era of the US Navy at the Subic Naval Base, cost P500 million and was realized after SBMA founding chairman Richard J. Gordon secured the funding during his second term as senator.
The inauguration, which was graced by Gordon, SBMA Chairman Eduardo Alino and former chairman Robert Garcia, was done on the occasion of the 32nd Founding Anniversary of the SBMA.
"I worked hard to secure funding for this bridge when I was still in the Senate. But beyond that, we must remember that this bridge is more than just an access point to Olongapo, it’s a gateway to opportunities,” said Gordon.
“It ensures that the economic benefits of the Subic Freeport reach the hardworking people of Olongapo, San Marcelino, Castillejos, Hermosa and Morong, Bataan providing residents and businesses with better access to the wealth of opportunities generated within the Freeport," he added.
GENERATIONS OF SBMA LEADERSHIP. (Left to Right) Former SBMA Chairman Robert Garcia, Founding Chairman of SBMA Sen. Richard "Dick" Gordon and current SBMA Administrator, Chairman Eduardo Aliño.
For his part, Alino honored Gordon and more than 8,000 volunteers who played a crucial role in creating SBMA.
"On the 32nd founding anniversary of SBMA, we honored the Volunteers Shrine, a tribute that began with Senator Gordon. The 8,000 volunteers played a crucial role in creating SBMA, transforming the former Subic Bay Naval Base into a thriving freeport. This effort led to the creation of over 200,000 jobs and brought international recognition. Today, we continue to enhance and develop SBMA." Said Alino.
The event, attended by SBMA officials, local leaders, and volunteers, symbolized decades of shared vision, values, struggles, and triumphs.