HD Hyundai Heavy Industries Philippines (HHIP) launched Orion Jade, its first vessel built in the country, marking the official start of its full-scale shipbuilding operations and roughly 4,000 Filipino workforce in Subic Bay Freeport.
Measuring an impressive 250 meters in length, 42 meters in
breadth, and 21 meters in depth, Orion Jade showcases the
world-class shipbuilding capabilities of HD Hyundai’s Subic
facility and 4,000 Filipino skilled workers.
“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. I
would like to express my sincere appreciation to the Philippine
government, Subic Bay and Metropolitan Authority, our
customers, business partners, contractors, suppliers, and
everyone who has supported HHIP,” HHIP President Im Dae Jun
said.
Investment czar and Finance Secretary Frederick D. Go
welcomed the vessel’s launch as proof that the government’s
efforts to attract strategic investments are translating into
tangible economic gains.
“The launch of the Orion Jade is a testament to the Marcos Jr.
administration’s efforts to attract strategic investments and
ensure that these commitments materialize into projects that
generate quality jobs, strengthen our industrial capabilities, and
create meaningful economic opportunities for Filipinos.”
Secretary Go added that HD Hyundai’s investment is expanding
employment opportunities in Subic and neighboring provinces.
“I understand that there are almost 4,000 jobs created here, and very soon that number is expected to double. Thank you for
boosting our industrial capabilities and for providing
employment to thousands of Filipinos. Thank you for trusting
the skills of the Filipino workforce. We look forward to your
continued expansion here in Subic,” he said.
Beyond job creation, HD Hyundai is partnering with the
Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA)
to help develop the skilled workforce needed to support the
country’s growing shipbuilding industry. The partnership aligns
technical and vocational education with industry requirements,
equipping Filipino workers with in-demand skills while
strengthening the long-term competitiveness of the sector.
The launch marks the continued fulfillment of HD Hyundai’s
investment commitment to the Philippines. Construction of the
vessels formally began in September 2025 with a steel-cutting
ceremony led by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
With more vessels scheduled for construction in Subic, HD
Hyundai’s continued investment is helping revitalize the
Philippine shipbuilding industry, create quality jobs, strengthen
local industries, and drive economic growth in the countryside.
