Marcos: PH shipyard capacity to rise with Hyundai facility in Subic

Conveying his administration's commitment to revive the country's shipbuilding industry, President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. on Tuesday expressed confidence that the Hyundai Shipyard in Subic, Zambales would result in stronger Philippine shipyard capacity and more employment opportunities for Filipinos.

In the inauguration of the HD Hyundai Shipyard in Subic, Marcos said that from 2014 to 2018, the country's shipyards were producing annually 1.2 to 2 million gross tons of ships—roughly around 20 oil tankers or 30 large container ships. 

Marcos said that beginning 2019, "our output fell, we lost our momentum."

"With Hyundai Heavy Industries investing in Subic, our shipyard capacity will significantly increase from 1.3 million to 2.5 million deadweight tons, from handling four to five massive oil tankers to about now eight of those ships," Marcos said. 

"But more than size, now the ships that we built–this means that we can accommodate vessels with higher volumes, boost our export potential, and create more jobs for our Filipino workers. By 2030, we look forward to this yard employing 4,300 Filipinos," he added. 

According to Marcos, 30% of the world's seafarers are Filipinos as he described them as diligent men and women "whose skill and dedication keep the seafaring industry moving every single day."

"And to make this partnership succeed, we are working to match Hyundai's investment with a skilled workforce worthy of their trust," the President said. 

He said the Philippines has 16 training programs covering every discipline, from marine electricity to gas or arc welding, so that the skills meet the standards of any shipyard around the world.

"All these efforts show our commitment to reviving the industry to ensure that it will thrive in the generations to come," Marcos said.

The inauguration formally launched Hyundai's operations in the Philippines, reinforcing the country's position as a strategic hub for maritime and industrial growth in the Asia-Pacific region.

As of end-July 2025, the total investment made by HD Hyundai Heavy Industries - Philippines (HHIP) amounted to $130 million. By the end of December 2025, this figure is projected to reach $180 million. 

The total employment as of July was 1,200 employees. — VDV, GMA Integrated News