COLLECTIVE
is a quarterly publication of the Bases Conversion and Development Authority.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Two days, one backpack: An urbanite’s Clark adventure
Revolutionizing transport in Clark one project at a time
Grafik Hotel: Redefining luxury and modern design in Baguio City
New home for air fighters
Savor the future: How Maker and Made is redefining sustainable dining in BGC
BCDA wrapped 2024
Infocus: New Clark City apogee
The 4 E's of Clark's pioneering food forest Snapshots
A showcase of Clark's global potential Clark Aviation Capital because it works, dreams fly
Moving towards a more progressive ecozone
BCDA is only PH nat'l agency to bag two Gold Stevies awards
BCDA celebrates the launch of Hann Reserve Public Park in New Clark City
Atty. Hilario B. Paredes CHAIRPERSON
Engr. Joshua M. Bingcang PRESIDENT AND CEO
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Leilani Barlongay-Macasaet
EXECUTIVE EDITOR Rosbert A. Serona, Jr.
MANAGING EDITOR Denver A. Moreno
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Zilpah I. Tabanera
CONTRIBUTORS January Guia Caringal, Garry A. Cativo, Chrisee Jalyssa V. dela Paz, John Darren Guiwan, Zyrelle A. Del Prado, Mary Grace C. Padin, Mariedel Irish U. Catilogo o
Samuel Luke Galivo, Clark International Airport Corporation, Che Vienes Equine Portrait, and Maker and Made
ABOUT BCDA
BCDA is a development corporation vested with corporate powers under Republic Act (RA) 7227 or Bases Conversion and Development Act of 1992. The BCDA Charter was amended by RA 7917 in 1995, and further amended by RA 9400 in 2007. Mandated to help strengthen the Armed Forces while building great cities, BCDA remains as a major force in creating economic opportunities in the country through its establishment of integrated developments, dynamic business centers and vibrant communities.
ON THE COVER
Inspired by the annual Spotify “Wrapped,” this issue of The Collective showcases BCDA’s remarkable achievements and significant developments in 2024—all wrapped into one cover. The design exudes dynamism and vibrancy, mirroring the strength and liveliness of the BCDA’s economic zones throughout the year.
EDITORIAL ADDRESS
BCDA Corporate Center 2/F, Bonifacio Technology Center 31st Street cor. 2nd Ave. Bonifacio Global City Taguig City, Philippines
CONTACT NO. (632) 8575-1700
FAX (632) 8816-0996
bcda@bcda.gov.ph
Dive into exclusive insights, stunning visuals, and visionary plans that prove BCDA isn’t just building structures — it’s building legacies. 1 2 3
We take you on a journey through a year of transformation, innovation, and progress.
From groundbreaking infrastructure to sustainable cityscapes, we unveil the stories behind the programs and projects that are shaping the nation’s future.
Clark Freeport Zone
New Clark City Clark International Airpot
Revolutionizing transport in Clark one project at a time
By Mary Grace C. Padin
Imagine a future like this: you have decided to finally get away from the traffic, pollution, and congestion plaguing Metro Manila and move outside the capital. Your first choice? Clark.
It offers everything you would ever need—from abundant job opportunities, to essential institutions like schools and hospitals, to vast green spaces and diverse leisure spots. All of these, without the caveat of dealing with horrific urban problems present in other major cities.
But the icing on the cake is just how easy it is for you to go from Clark to other parts of the country and the globe.
Traveling to Metro Manila for business meetings is a breeze given that it is only two hours away from the metro via the SubicClark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEx) and North Luzon Expressway. As an alternative, you also have the option to ride the NorthSouth Commuter Railway (NSCR), enabling you to go as far as Laguna within an hour. Going on a weekend getaway to Baguio, La Union, or anywhere further up north is also effortless with Clark’s interconnectivity via the SCTEx and the Tarlac-PangasinanLa Union Expressway. If you’re planning for a short vacation, the state-of-the-art Clark International Airport (CRK) also offers flights to several local and international destinations.
More importantly, the modern, multimodal transport systems and robust road infrastructure in Clark makes it comfortable to get around the city, whether you’re going by car, bus, bike or walking. You can worry less about pollution and carbon emissions, too, as Clark promotes the culture of using electric vehicles, autonomous buses, and other forms of smart and clean-energy transportation.
With the freight service provided by the Subic-Clark-Manila-Batangas (SCMB) Railway, getting your shipments from domestic and overseas sources has also become faster and more affordable.
THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT NORTH-SOUTH COMMUTER RAILWAY
This is the future promised in Clark— where transport is made effortlessly
Source: https://nscr.com.ph/about
seamless and incredibly convenient. With several game-changing infrastructure projects finished and on the pipeline, Clark will transform into the country’s next transport and logistics hub, soon becoming the place where all modern transport infrastructure converges.
From Clark to Metro Manila in less than an hour
Spanning 147 kilometers (km), the NSCR System will connect Clark to the National Capital Region (NCR) and Laguna.
It is part of the national government’s efforts to improve the transport sector in the Philippines, easing traffic congestion in various regional centers of Luzon through a high-quality, long-distance passenger rail service. This is seen to spur inclusive economic development in the region, ensuring that economic opportunities are felt especially in areas outside of Metro Manila.
Jointly implemented by the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Philippine National Railways, the NSCR’s Clark to Valenzuela line is expected to start operations by 2027. The Manila to Calamba, Laguna segment, meanwhile, will go online by 2029.
Redefining airport passenger experience
Considered as one of the most beautiful and most efficient airports in the world, CRK is Central Luzon’s crown jewel when it comes to transport infrastructure.
CRK was built with the vision of providing the convenience of a modern and world-class gateway with seamless connectivity to vital infrastructure and major economies of the world. This will help decongest the Ninoy Aquino International Airport and help position Central and Northern Luzon as a premier business and tourism hub in Asia.
With its smart design that focuses on efficiency and seamless passenger experience, the whole boarding process— from the main entrance to the boarding gate—can be completed within 30 minutes.
To further boost CRK’s capacity and enhance operational efficiency, Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), together with the DOTr, is pursuing the expansion of the airport by building more taxiways, aprons, utilities, and a second runway. Phases 1 and 2, with an estimated cost of Php15 billion and Php10 billion, respectively, are expected to be completed by 2028.
Clark International Airport
Moving products made faster and easier
A critical component of the ambitious Luzon Economic Corridor, the US$7 billion SCMB Railway is a 250-kilometer project that aims to provide essential connectivity and freight transport services between four economic center points, including the Port of Subic, CRK, Port of Manila, and Port of Batangas. This will play a huge role in the country’s logistics sector, as these four ports facilitate about 80 percent of the entire country’s port traffic.
This will support commerce in the country, making cargo transport in Luzon faster and more affordable. Seen to make the Philippines more attractive to investors, Luzon Economic Corridor will drive more economic activities, provide job opportunities, and promote inclusive development in the region.
With the help of the United States and Japan, the government seeks to finalize the railway’s design by 2026, and begin construction by 2027.
Getting around Clark: a ‘15-minute city’
In Clark, the goal is to have everything within reach in 15 minutes. This means that if you need to go to school, to a grocery store, or to a hospital, you will get there within 15 minutes.
The BCDA is doing this by embarking on transit-oriented developments (TODs), leveraging on environment friendly, multi-modal transport systems, and smartly designing an extensive road network in the city. These will help revolutionize urban transport in Clark, creating a city where the flow of traffic is smooth, where walking, biking, and other forms of active mobility is promoted, and where environmentfriendly forms of transportation are prioritized.
Through the Clark Integrated Public Transport System, two multimodal transport hubs will soon rise in Clark Freeport Zone and New Clark City. Supported by the connecting roads being developed by the BCDA, this will surely make getting around Clark easier and more efficiently.
It is also the BCDA’s vision to line the roads in Clark with smart and sustainable modes of transportation, such as electric and selfdriving vehicles, ushering a transition towards a greener and more carbon-neutral future.
The iconic 900-meter Sacobia Bridge along the One Clark Boulevard Artist's render of the North-South Commuter Railway
Electric vehicles and bikes in New Clark City
Grafik Hotel: Redefining in Baguio City luxury and modern design
By Zyrelle A. Del Prado
Grafik Hotel is set to become another highlight of Camp John Hay, bringing a fresh take on luxury and modern design that promises to elevate the hospitality scene in Baguio City.
With a strong emphasis on guest experience, Grafik Hotel aims to capture the spirit of what makes Baguio truly special, inviting visitors to enjoy a new level of comfort and style.
The 256 upscale accommodations on 5,700 square meters of land in Camp John Hay will also feature food and beverage outlets, a grand ballroom, meeting spaces, and a spa.
The Grafik Hotel is expected to bring a vibrant new energy to Baguio City, blending seamlessly with the city’s unique topography. Mr. Francis Gotianun, Senior Vice President of Filinvest Hospitality Corporation, cannot
contain his excitement about welcoming guests, and he is hopeful that Grafik Hotel will have a huge impact on the local tourism scene, a promising development that reflects the city’s ongoing growth and appeal to tourists.
Another major milestone for Filinvest, the Grafik Hotel at Camp John Hay will be the first dual-brand property under Grafik Hotels and Resorts and Quest Hotels and Resorts. This expansion will continue Filinvest's thrusts to explore more places beyond Cebu, Clark, and Tagaytay. Added to that is the dimension of partnering with Chroma Hospitality, FDC, and Archipelago International from Singapore, giving a perfect mix of local insights and global expertise.
Looking forward to 2025, Grafik Hotel is more than just a hotel; it symbolizes new beginnings and endless possibilities. Located in the midst of Camp John Hay, it will create a lively atmosphere as it draws in both locals and foreign guests. The hotel aspires to be a hub where everyone can gather to explore and enjoy Baguio's irresistible beauty, making unforgettable memories along the way.
Interior of Grafik Hotel's rooms
Savor future the
How Maker and Made is redefining sustainable dining in BGC
By Mariedel Irish U. Catilogo
Across the globe, restaurants and cafes are embracing sustainable practices to cater to the rising demand for ecofriendly dining. One prominent trend is the farmto-table movement, which focuses on sourcing fresh ingredients directly from local farms. By supporting local agriculture and minimizing the carbon footprint associated with long-distance food transportation, this approach aligns culinary innovation with environmental responsibility.
In the heart of Bonifacio Global City, one restaurant is making waves by bringing together two culinary worlds: Australian-style brunches infused with distinctly Filipino flavors. This is Maker and Made—a dining experience that is redefining sustainability in a unique and delicious way.
At Maker and Made, the team doesn’t just talk about sustainable dining—they live it. Their commitment to sustainability goes
beyond sourcing fresh, local ingredients. They take deliberate, impactful steps to ensure their offerings are a perfect blend of environmental responsibility and social consciousness.
By building strong partnerships with local farmers and prioritizing eco-friendly practices, Maker and Made is fostering an environment where both the planet and the local community thrive. This holistic approach isn’t just about what’s on the plate, but also about creating a sustainable future for all involved.
Savoring every bite
During my visit, I had the pleasure of trying their own take on the Farmer’s Breakfast— an impressive and hearty dish that blends continental comfort with a distinct Filipino twist. The plate featured a wagyu sausage, crisp bacon, indulgent potato royale, fresh local eggs,
Photo courtesy of Maker and Made
fermented greens, and sourdough pan de sal—each bite offering a flavorful balance of textures and tastes, with the earthy, locally sourced ingredients shining through.
Another standout dish was their homemade pappardelle pasta—simply exquisite. The pasta, thick and velvety, was generously coated in a rich tomato and basil sauce that delivered a savory, comforting depth of flavor. Every bite was a satisfying experience, showcasing the team’s dedication to quality and craftsmanship.
To cap off the meal, I was treated to their housemade banana bread and a mango caramel donut. The banana bread was decadently moist, with just the right amount of sweetness, while the mango caramel donut was a delightful blend of rich, fruity flavors and a perfectly balanced caramel finish.
Maker and Made is more than just a fancy restaurant. It’s a testament to how sustainable dining can be both environmentally conscious and incredibly delicious. By thoughtfully integrating local, fresh ingredients with their commitment to community and sustainability, the team is paving the way for a future where culinary innovation and social responsibility go hand in hand.
BANANABREAD
Maker and Made is open daily from 7:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. at Fifth Avenue Building, 5th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig 0928 488 1325
makerandmadebgc@gmail.com
Maker and Made BGC
makerandmadebgc
INFOCUS: apogee
NBy Denver A. Moreno
ew Clark City, a metropolis that experienced a bountiful year in 2024, has swiftly emerged as a top choice for sports and other events in the Philippines.
Home to the state-of-the-art Athletics Stadium, which can seat up to 20,000 spectators, and the internationally acclaimed Aquatics Center, New Clark City continues to attract athletes and spectators from all over the world for international competitions, training camps, and local tournaments. This has solidified its reputation as a sports powerhouse.
This year, New Clark City hosted a diverse range of events, from an international concert by the popular K-Pop group Enhyphen to eco-tourism activities. The city’s vibrant cultural hub status is further enhanced by its expansive open spaces and sustainable infrastructure. In February, it welcomed the inaugural Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta, while in September, it hosted the World Planning Congress.
A series of sporting events also happened in New Clark City, namely, the Asian Age Group Championships, La Liga Football, University Athletic Association of the Philippines Athletics and Swimming, Runrio Marathon, and Central Luzon Regional Athletics Association among others. Its strategic location, eco-friendly design, and commitment to both sports and culture have positioned it as a dynamic destination for leisure and competition.
ENHYPHEN Concert February 3, 2024
Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta February 16-18, 2024
Asian Age Group Championships March 2-7, 2024
Central Luzon Regional Athletic Association competition April 27-May 3, 2024
La Liga Football Championships
The 4 Es of Clark’s pioneering food forest
By Mary Grace C. Padin
Flaunting the abundance of nature amid an ultra-modern city backdrop, a 10-hectare ethnobotanical learning facility will soon rise in New Clark City, Tarlac, with the vision of becoming a thriving and bountiful food forest grown with the help of surrounding Aeta communities.
What is a food forest?
A food forest hosts a diversity of edible plants with the goal of mimicking natural
forest ecosystems and growing patterns found in nature. This results in an autonomous and resilient habitat for food-producing plants requiring little input and low maintenance. The Ayta Ethno Botanical Center (AEBC), spearheaded by the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), in partnership with the Department of Agriculture (DA) Regional Field Office III and the Pampanga State Agricultural University (PSAU), aims to scale up the agricultural capacities of local farmers and fisherfolk, especially
the Aeta communities in Pampanga and Tarlac. This will also be developed as a model for food forests to be established in other green areas of New Clark City. This will not only provide food and livelihood opportunities for the community, but also maintain a healthy landscape for all living creatures and improve climate resilience in Clark.
Enrich nature
The facility will help preserve the natural integrity of New Clark City, all while enhancing biodiversity, nourishing the soil, and contributing to reforestation efforts.
Ensure food security
Envisioned as a model food forest for Clark, AEBC will provide selfsustaining, resilient sources of highnutrition food for the local community.
Elevate tourism and the economy
The presence of an ethnobotanical learning facility in New Clark City also provides BCDA an opportunity to develop adjoining protected and forest reserve areas into an ecotourism spot.
Empower local communities
With the help of DA and PSAU, the AEBC will host training courses to improve the agriculture, food, and non-food based indigenous practices of the local Aeta communities. The center will also provide them with livelihood opportunities.
The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) has teamed up with Department of Agriculture (DA) Regional Field Office III, and the Pampanga State Agricultural University (PSAU) to establish a 10-hectare ethnobotanical learning facility in New Clark City, Capas, Tarlac in an effort to scale up the capacities of local farmers and fisherfolk, especially the Aeta communities in Pampanga and Tarlac.
BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Engr. Joshua M. Bingcang on December 13, 2024 signed memoranda of agreement with the DA Regional Field Office III Regional Executive Director Dr. Eduardo L. Lapuz and PSAU Vice President for Planning and Resource Generation Dr. Lyndon G. Solis for the establishment of Ayta Ethno Botanical Center in New Clark City.
The BCDA President and CEO cited the important role of those working in the agricultural sector saying that the government is putting high value on their contributions to nation-building. He also said that the BCDA aims for the project to be productive and vowed to provide more spaces to provide more benefits for the next generations of Aeta communities.
The BCDA signed an agreement with Australian firm AMSL Aero on October 3 to explore the development of an ecosystem for low-cost, zero-emission aircraft and hydrogen energy in the Philippines.
BCDA, during the Korea-Philippines Business Forum, signed a memoranda of understanding with RMS Platform for partnership opportunities on smart city infrastructure development, and with Korea Overseas Infrastructure and Urban Development Corporation for studies on the development of affordable residential communities in New Clark City.
BCDA and Korea-based Fine TME Co. signed a memorandum of understanding on a collaborative framework to cunduct studies on the efficient operations and maintenance of New Clark City sports facilities.
The BCDA, led by PCEO Joshua M. Bingcang, showcased its programs and projects at the Singapore Fintech Festival to attract investors for expansion in BCDA’s economic zones.
By Denver A. Moreno
The San Fernando International Seaport is a potential key driver of economic growth in the Northern Luzon region. With its strategic location, the seaport is envisioned as a trade and commerce gateway that is seen to attract investments and generate revenues.
In 1999, the seaport was leased to Poro Point Industrial Corporation (PPIC) under a private management agreement. While this arrangement aided its operations,
it also provided areas that needed to be modified and improved to meet with the evolving demands of the shipping industry.
The turnover
On December 1, 2024, the San Fernando International Seaport was handed over to the Poro Point Management Corporation (PPMC) and the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) from the PPIC. This significant milestone reflects the beginning of
a new era in the international and domestic seaport’s growth, aligning its operations with broader economic goals and national priorities.
A vision for development
PPMC President and CEO Atty. Racadio reaffirmed PPMC’s commitment to achieve the San Fernando International Seaport’s vision. He emphasized the alignment of PPMC’s objectives with the directives of BCDA and the national government, saying: "In faithful obedience and compliance with this marching order, echoed by BCDA, let us work hard for the fulfillment of this noble endeavor. However, we must remain vigilant against the temptation of corruption and the coming of smugglers that could ruin the purpose for which we are here. This project is significant, with projected income that will stem from the seaport."
This statement demonstrated a strong resolve to ensure that the international seaport will now become a symbol of progress while maintaining integrity and eliminating illegal activities that may jeopardize its success.
Moving forward
The successful turnover of the San Fernando International Seaport reflects a shared commitment to progress and growth. Guided by the vision of the national government, PPMC and BCDA remain dedicated to ensuring that the seaport is set to play a pivotal role in driving progress. As this new chapter begins, the target remains on maximizing the seaport’s potential to drive economic growth and regional development, ensuring its legacy as a gateway to progress for many years to come.
BCDA is only PH nat'l agency to bag two Gold Stevie awards
Chairman and CEO Dae Sik Han,
Vice President for Strategic Project Management Engr. Randy Viacrusis, BCDA Vice President for Land and Assets Development Engr. Richard Brian Cepe, BCDA PCEO Engr. Joshua M. Bingcang, and BCDA Land Management Officer Maureen Ignacio
in the with the vision of building the nation's green, resilient, inclusive, and smart metropolis.
The groundbreaking ceremony was graced by BCDA President Bingcang, BCDA Vice President for Strategic Project Management Engr. Randy Viacrusis, BCDA Vice President for Land and Assets Development Engr. Richard Brian Cepe, BCDA Land Management Officer Maureen Ignacio, Hann Philippines Chairman and CEO Dae Sik Hann, Vice President for Real Estate and Property Development Neki Liwanag, and Director of Corporate Planning Andrea Sigua on 22 November 2024 in New Clark City, Tarlac.
( From left) Hann Philippines Vice President for Real Estate and Property Development Neki Liwanag, Hann Philippines
BCDA
Artist's render of the Hann Reserve Public Park Passive Zone
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