SUBIC BAY FREEPORT— The Italian-operated cruise ship Costa Serena returned to the Subic Bay Freeport Zone on Sunday, October 25, 2026, following its last visit in 2025.

The vessel arrived with approximately 1,700 passengers and 1,000 crew members, according to Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Deputy Administrator for Port Operations Atty. Martin Kristoffer Roman.

About 80 additional passengers are expected to board the ship in Subic, while around 30 people, mostly crew members, are expected to disembark.

Before arriving in Subic Bay, the Costa Serena visited Hong Kong. It is scheduled to sail to Boracay next.

The cruise ship is expected to remain at the SBMA port until 5 p.m. Sunday. Shore excursions offered to passengers include trips to Bataan, shopping, dining at local restaurants, and sightseeing in Pampanga.

Among the tourism providers offering activities for visitors is MAD Earth (Make A Difference) Travel, which offers tour packages featuring traditional cooking, trekking to El Kabayo Falls, and other experiences within the Subic Bay Freeport Zone.

Roman said cruise ship arrivals help boost economic activity in the freeport, particularly in tourism and businesses that benefit from visitor spending.

The SBMA expects two to three more cruise ships to visit Subic Bay before the end of 2026, with additional arrivals anticipated next year. (Ang Pahayagan Reportorial Team)

Top 📸 || Performers from Olongapo City National High School welcome tourists disembarking from the Italian cruise ship Costa Serena at Boton Pier in the Subic Bay Freeport Zone on Sunday, October 25. The vessel arrived with around 1,700 passengers and 1,000 crew members, bringing business opportunities for local establishments, tour operators and transport providers. (Photos by Jun M. Dumaguing)