Subic: A Coastal Paradise in the Philippines

• HelloKamusta
  [kah-moo-stah]
• GoodbyePaalam
  [pah-ah-lahm]
• YesOo
  [oh-oh]
• NoHindi
  [hin-dee]
• Please/You're welcomeMangyaring
  [man-gyah-ring]
• Thank youSalamat
  [sah-lah-mat]
• Excuse me/SorryPasensya na
  [pah-sen-syah nah]
• How are you?Kamusta ka?
  [kah-moo-stah kah]
• Fine. And you?Mabuti. Ikaw?
  [mah-boo-tee. ee-kahw]
• Do you speak English?Nag-e-English ka ba?
  [nag-eh-ehng-gleesh kah bah]
• I don't understandHindi ko maintindihan
  [hin-dee koh main-tin-dee-hahn]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseGusto kong makita ang menu, pakiusap
  [goos-toh kong mah-kee-tah ahng meh-noo, pah-kee-oo-sahp]
• I don't eat meatHindi ako kumakain ng karne
  [hin-dee ah-koh koo-mah-kah-een ng kahr-neh]
• Cheers!Tagay!
  [tah-gahy]
• I would like to pay, pleaseGusto kong magbayad, pakiusap
  [goos-toh kong mahg-bah-yahd, pah-kee-oo-sahp]

• Help!Tulong!
  [too-long]
• Go away!Lumayo ka!
  [loo-mah-yoh kah]
• Call the Police!Tawag sa Pulis!
  [tah-wahg sah poo-lis]
• Call a doctor!Tawag sa doktor!
  [tah-wahg sah dohk-tohr]
• I'm lostNawawala ako
  [nah-wah-wah-lah ah-koh]
• I'm illMay sakit ako
  [mahy sah-keet ah-koh]

• I'd like to buy...Gusto kong bumili ng...
  [goos-toh kong boo-mee-lee ng...]
• I'm just lookingNagtitignan lang ako
  [nag-tee-tee-nyan lahng ah-koh]
• How much is it?Magkano ito?
  [mahg-kah-noh ee-toh]
• That's too expensiveMasyadong mahal
  [mah-syah-dohng mah-hahl]
• Can you lower the price?Pwede bang babaan ang presyo?
  [pweh-deh bahng bah-bah-ahn ahng preh-syoh?]

• What time is it?Anong oras na?
  [ah-nawng oh-rah-s nah]
• It's one o'clockAlas-una na
  [ah-lahs-oo-nah nah]
• Half past (10)Alas-dyes y medya
  [ah-lahs-dyehs ee mehd-yah]
• MorningUmaga
  [oo-mah-gah]
• AfternoonHapon
  [hah-pohn]
• EveningGabi
  [gah-bee]
• YesterdayKahapon
  [kah-hah-pohn]
• TodayNgayon
  [ngah-yohn]
• TomorrowBukas
  [boo-kahs]
• 1Isa
  [ee-sah]
• 2Dalawa
  [dah-lah-wah]
• 3Tatlo
  [taht-loh]
• 4Apat
  [ah-paht]
• 5Lima
  [lee-mah]
• 6Anim
  [ah-neem]
• 7Pito
  [pee-toh]
• 8Walo
  [wah-loh]
• 9Siyam
  [see-yahm]
• 10Sampu
  [sahm-poo]

• Where's a/the...?Nasaan ang...
  [nah-sah-ahn ahng...]
• What's the address?Ano ang address?
  [ah-noh ahng ah-drehs]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Pwede mo ba akong ipakita (sa mapa)?
  [pweh-deh moh bah ah-kohng ee-pah-kee-tah sah mah-pah?]
• When's the next (bus)?Kailan ang susunod na (bus)?
  [kah-ee-lahn ahng soo-soo-nohd nah (boos)?]
• A ticket (to ....)Isang tiket (papuntang ....)
  [ee-sahng tee-keht (pah-poon-tahng ....)]

Before the arrival of Spanish colonizers, the area now known as Subic was inhabited by indigenous groups such as the Aeta people. These early inhabitants were hunter-gatherers who lived off the land and sea, relying on fishing, hunting, and foraging. They developed a deep connection to their natural surroundings, which included the lush forests and abundant marine life.

In the late 16th century, Spanish explorers arrived in the Philippines, marking the beginning of over three centuries of Spanish rule. Subic Bay was identified as a strategically important location due to its deep waters and natural harbor. However, it wasn't until 1885 that the Spanish established a naval base in Subic Bay to protect their interests in the Pacific. The base was part of a larger network of fortifications that included the nearby Fort Wint on Grande Island.

Following the Spanish-American War in 1898, the Philippines was ceded to the United States. Recognizing the strategic significance of Subic Bay, the U.S. Navy took control of the Spanish naval base. In 1901, the U.S. officially established the Subic Bay Naval Station, which would grow to become one of the largest overseas military installations. The base played a critical role during World War II, serving as a repair and supply depot for the U.S. Pacific Fleet.

During World War II, Subic Bay was a focal point of military activity. In 1941, Japanese forces invaded the Philippines and took control of Subic Bay, using it as a base for their naval operations. The area was heavily bombarded by Allied forces as they sought to reclaim it. In 1945, Subic Bay was liberated by American and Filipino forces, and the U.S. Navy quickly moved to rebuild and expand the naval base.

After World War II, Subic Bay Naval Base underwent significant expansion, becoming a vital logistics and repair hub for the U.S. Seventh Fleet. During the Cold War, Subic Bay's strategic location made it an essential part of America's military presence in Asia. The base supported operations during the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and various other conflicts, serving as a critical point for the deployment and resupply of U.S. forces.

In 1991, the eruption of Mount Pinatubo, one of the most powerful volcanic eruptions of the 20th century, caused widespread devastation in the surrounding areas, including Subic Bay. The base suffered significant damage, and combined with the end of the Cold War, this led to the eventual withdrawal of U.S. forces. In 1992, the Philippine government took control of the base, marking the end of nearly a century of American military presence.

Following the departure of the U.S. military, the Philippine government transformed Subic Bay into a freeport and special economic zone. The Subic Bay Freeport Zone was established to stimulate economic growth, attract foreign investment, and create jobs. Today, it is a thriving hub for commerce, industry, and tourism, boasting modern infrastructure, pristine beaches, and a vibrant community.

Subic's rich cultural heritage is celebrated through various festivals and events. The annual 'Pistang Aeta' honors the traditions of the Aeta community, featuring traditional music, dance, and crafts. 'Subic Bay Festival' showcases the area's maritime history and includes parades, water sports, and culinary fairs. These events highlight the blend of indigenous, Spanish, American, and modern Filipino influences that define Subic's unique cultural landscape.

Subic is located in the province of Zambales, Philippines. The nearest international airport is Clark International Airport in Angeles City, approximately 80 kilometers away. From Clark, you can take a taxi or a shuttle service to Subic, with the journey typically taking around 1.5 to 2 hours by road. Alternatively, you can fly into Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila, which is about 130 kilometers away. From Manila, you can take a bus, taxi, or private car to Subic, with travel time ranging from 3 to 4 hours depending on traffic.

Subic offers various transportation options for getting around. Jeepneys and tricycles are the most common and affordable means of transport within the area. Taxis and ride-hailing services like Grab are also available. For more convenience, you can rent a car, which allows you to explore Subic and its surrounding areas at your own pace. There are also shuttle services that operate between major hotels and tourist attractions.

The official currency in the Philippines is the Philippine Peso (PHP). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, larger restaurants, and shopping centers, but it is advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available throughout Subic, but it is recommended to withdraw sufficient cash before heading to more remote areas.

Subic is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is always important to exercise standard safety precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and be cautious of your belongings in crowded places. While Subic does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is advisable to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Subic has local police stations and medical facilities available. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) also has its own emergency response teams.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in religious and public places. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always behave respectfully in places of worship. Public Transport: Do be courteous and give up your seat to elderly or disabled passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a slight nod of the head. A handshake is also acceptable. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Subic like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh seafood and traditional Filipino goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the area's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, which offers a range of activities from shopping and dining to water sports and wildlife parks. For a unique experience, explore the nearby beaches and enjoy water activities like snorkeling and diving.