HD Hyundai has launched the first vessel built at its Subic shipyard, marking the start of full-scale shipbuilding operations in the Philippines and signaling renewed confidence in the country’s bid to regain its footing as a regional maritime manufacturing hub.
The launch of the Orion Jade, the inaugural vessel constructed by HD Hyundai Heavy Industries Philippines (HHIP), represents a key milestone in the South Korean shipbuilder’s long-term investment in Subic. It is the first of four vessels on order and the first ship to roll out of the facility since construction activities began last year.
Stretching 250 meters long, 42 meters wide and 21 meters deep, the vessel showcases the capabilities of the modernized shipyard, which the government hopes will become a catalyst for high-value manufacturing and export growth.
“Today’s launching marks a historic milestone for HHIP. It’s the third time we have transformed our vision into reality, and today we proudly celebrate another important step in our journey,” HHIP President Im Dae Jun said, thanking the Philippine government, the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority, customers and industry partners.
The milestone also highlights the Marcos administration’s efforts to attract large-scale industrial investments beyond traditional sectors such as electronics and business process outsourcing.
Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs and Finance Secretary Frederick D. Go said the project is already generating tangible economic benefits.
“I understand that there are almost 4,000 jobs created here, and very soon that number is expected to double,” Go said. “Thank you for boosting our industrial capabilities and for providing employment to thousands of Filipinos.”
Beyond employment, HD Hyundai is partnering with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority to train the next generation of Filipino shipbuilders, helping ensure a steady pipeline of skilled workers as production expands.
The project traces its roots to September 2025, when President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. led the steel-cutting ceremony that formally kicked off construction.
For the Philippines, the launch of the Orion Jade is more than a ceremonial milestone. It signals that global manufacturers are once again placing long-term bets on the country’s industrial potential, with shipbuilding emerging as another pillar of export-led growth and advanced manufacturing.
