BCDA triples revenues to P22.1B
The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) recorded a strong financial performance in 2024, with total gross revenues reaching Php22.1 billion—triple the Php7.3 billion posted in 2023 and well above the earlier projection of Php11 billion. The surge reflects BCDA’s growing impact in transforming former military bases into engines of national development and economic opportunity.
The increase was fueled by multiple income streams, led by gains from a joint venture agreement with a private developer amounting to Php13.9 billion. Service concession revenues rose to Php3.4 billion in 2024 from Php2.5 billion in 2023, driven by toll rate hikes and strong growth in airport operations, including passenger traffic, cargo, and flights. Business and lease income, meanwhile, amounted to Php1.59 billion in 2024.
“With our consistent push for innovation, strategic partnerships, and responsible
development, BCDA remains steadfast in its mission to build smart, sustainable communities and deliver transformative infrastructure for generations to come,” said BCDA President and CEO Engr. Joshua M. Bingcang. “These revenues are not just figures. They represent opportunities for inclusive growth, quality jobs, and better lives for the Filipino people.”
Under Republic Act No. 7227, the BCDA is mandated to transform former military camps into centers of growth. Revenues are generated through land disposition, lease, joint ventures, and concession fees. A portion of these funds is remitted to the Bureau of the Treasury as dividends and contributions to the Armed Forces of the Philippines for its Modernization Program and other beneficiary agencies.
The rest is reinvested into infrastructure projects that strengthen economic zones, improve regional connectivity, and attract investments.
Aerial view of Bonifacio Global City.
P22.1B in 2024
by Maricar Gay S. Savella-Villamil
The passion to build: MEET LTC. RAPHY R. MENOR PA
by Maricar Gay S. Savella-Villamil
“
Ifeelprivilegedtohandle delicateandbigpositions. Gratefulakosapagkakataon, beingpartofthecoreof engineersoftheinstitution...”
-LTC. Menor PA
Engineers are usually at the forefront of crafting solutions that are both innovative and reliable. They either find ways to solve new problems or seek new ways to meet recurring demands. Whichever way, the work of an engineer paves the way for new beginnings.
Seldom do we think of engineers when we think of the military. Yet behind that important mission of protecting our sovereignty are also technical experts who are not in combat this time, but are there protecting and helping their own through essential build projects. This, while contributing to civilmilitary operations through life-saving community structures.
One who is inspired to build new structures for his fellow troops and community stakeholders is Lt. Col. Raphy R. Menor, a military engineer for about 20 years.
A personal encounter with Sir Raphy was during preparations back in 2021 for the groundbreaking ceremony for the Philippine Army’s Special and Technical Staff (STS) Building, one of the military replication projects of the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA).
This encounter with him paved the way for a continuing correspondence that enables one to see the expertise, competence and selflessness that has been a notable mark of our Filipino soldiers.
But First, Mathematics
Engr. Raphy was born and raised inside Camp Siongco located in Awang, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao, home to the 6th Infantry “Kampilan” Division of the Philippine Army (PA). He grew up around military men. His father was MSgt Ramon Menor and like him, his uncles from his father’s side and maternal grandfather are all from the military.
He was quick to admit though that while studying at the Notre Dame University in Cotabato City, he did not see himself as a “military man,” focusing rather on studying hard to achieve his ultimate dream of not only being a civil engineer but being a professor in engineering.
“(Joining the military) was not exactly a first choice. I love mathematics and I want a career as a civil engineer and to teach. I also saw the passion of
Then Maj. Menor (4th from left) and the members of the Engineering Branch before the inauguration of the new Special Technical Staff (STS) Building at the Headquarters, Philippine Army in Fort Bonifacio.
my professors and the achievement they feel when students learn something. Todo suporta ang pamilya ko sa dream ko, todo kayod,” he shared.
This love for Math and his diligence have paved the way for him to being among board topnotchers, ending up as 16th placer in the National Licensure Examination for Civil Engineering, besting thousands back in November 2004.
Born to a closely-knit family in Mindanao, he revealed that his father was a great influence, often emphasizing the need to plan for the future while citing the benefits of working in government.
“My father, siya ang mismong nagmulat sa akin. Kahit na noong panahon na mababa ang sahod, yung future mo mas secure sa government given the benefits.”
His father already retired at the time he entered college, while his mother, Phoebe, was a housewife manning their sari-sari store to help augment the family income and provide for four children.
Being the eldest among his siblings, he then realized that a career in the military does not only offer stability, but could still grant the opportunity for him to practice engineering.
After topping the boards, he passed the AFPATB or the Armed Forces of the Philippines Aptitude Test Battery in early 2005 and by October, took his oath as part of the country’s military service. He entered the AFP as 2nd Lieutenant, assigned as Platoon Leader in Charlie Company, 16th Infantry Battalion of the 2nd Infantry “Jungle Fighter” Division (2ID) based in Camp General Mateo Capinpin in Tanay, Rizal.
It must be the eldest brother’s influence but soon enough, even his siblings entered the military with his younger sister and brother—both registered
nurses—joining the Philippine Army and the Philippine National Police, respectively. Their youngest, who joined the PA Officer School, later on pursued his profession as Civil Engineer in a private firm.
Engineer, on the rise
The thirst for learning and thriving as an engineer never left Lt. Col. Menor upon joining the force.
In 2009, he grabbed the opportunity for further studies taking up the AFP Corps of Engineers Course, which will enable him to provide general engineering support to the PA through its modules on army combat leadership, as well as contributing to the national government’s socio-economic initiatives.
From 2010 to 2014, he was then assigned in Bukidnon as part of the 52nd Engineering Brigade, one of the Army’s five engineering brigades. From there he took advance courses in Engineering and was fortunately selected as part of the Engineering Department of the Combat Support School based in Cabanatuan City. He continued to handle more challenging tasks as Command Engineer of the Training and Doctrine Command (TRACOM) at Camp O’ Donnell, Capas, Tarlac and then as part of the 51st Engineering Brigade, Camp Atienza in Libis.
In 2021, he was assigned to the Office of the Assistant Chief of Staff for Logistics of the Philippine Army, Chief Engineering Branch. The Office is responsible for overseeing all aspects of logistics and supply chain management within the army. Among key tasks are the provision of procurement services, and transportation storage and distribution of supplies to various army units as they carry on their mission for the country.
He shares that his most challenging and most impactful projects are housing projects for his fellow troops. Among these were a three-unit, 10door apartment for troops of the 52nd Engineering Brigade, who were on an urgent mission in Bukidnon. Super Typhoon Sendong, which ravaged the country back in 2011, also brought in one of the most memorable tasks as they had to finish shelters and temporary homes for calamity-stricken families within a tight timeline—in compliance with the directives of then President Benigno Noynoy Aquino.
An engineer at heart, he reflects on his role and his contribution to his fellow soldiers: “I feel privileged to handle delicate and big positions. Grateful ako sa pagkakataon, being part of the Corps of Engineers
This photo was taken after the completion and inauguration of a memorial wall in Cagayan De Oro commemorating its victims, after the onslaught of typhoon “Sendong.”
of the Organization. As then Branch Chief, doon mo makikita ‘yong galaw ng mga units, referring to Engineering and Logistical related activities. Nakikita ko kung ano ang kailangan suportahan, ano ang priority, papaano pagugulungin ang project at saan kukuha ng pang suporta…”
Amidst the challenges of building with limited resources, compact timelines and great accountability, he admits that the whole experience has been a major life lesson for him. “Eto yung pinakamagandang experience na sa tingin ko nagpabago ng career at isipan ko, in terms of planning, and leading a simple life and managing even my household.”
Also a teacher by heart
Lt. Col. Menor has that insatiable thirst to learn. He is currently enrolled at the University of the Philippines School of Urban and Regional Planning taking up his masters degree. He believes that he can soon contribute this newfound knowledge on understanding and creating masterplans to the AFP setting his sights on the prospect of being a future licensed environmental planner.
Aside from being a student, he is also a teacher in the Army. He enthusiastically imparts his knowledge to aspiring military engineers, especially about General Engineering. In honing engineers in the field of project management, he enables them to understand and internalize crafting solutions through innovation and proper planning. As a faculty member of TRACOM, he teaches surveying and preparation of project management construction reports. He helps the younger troops understand the military decision-making process for them to better address their responsibilities as part of the engineering unit.
As a planner, he cites the importance of prioritizing the needs of your units amidst limited resources, and a short timeline. He recognizes housing as an urgent need of troops. “Ideally sa isang tropa, meron silang space. However, troops on the ground have very congested facilities that are able to accommodate only some of them.”
He shared that it is a directive of the Commanding General, Philippine Army—to see to it that our troops have enough billeting quarters.
This is a commitment Lt. Col. Menor holds deeply.
Modernization in mind
From an engineer’s point of view, modernization not only means being able to buy world-class combat equipment to deter enemies but also having engineering-related projects that give comfort, beyond the traditional. He mentioned the value of having a bigger office that can accommodate the growing military organization that will inevitably demand for more and more facilities in line with its mission.
He cites BCDA’s replicated facilities–the new STS Building–as an example which can better accommodate the space needed by troops, enabling better communication between units due to shared facilities, and storage solutions for ease of handling documents. He described the structure as “worldclass.” According to him, the STS building serves as a window to show the world outside that we have modern structures for the AFP.
The new four-storey building with helipad and parking was formally turned over by the BCDA to the PA in 2024. The improved space now houses nine offices which include the Commission on Audit, the OACOCS, OACESPA, OAQM, PAFP, OCI, PMMC and the AHRO. Aside from bringing
Lt. Col. Menor with fellow students of the University of the Philippines School for Urban and Regional Planning who are taking up their Masters degree in Urban and Regional Planning.
key offices together under one roof in aid of smooth operations, it also features a helipad that is strategically located near the office of the army top brass.
As a stakeholder of BCDA, he shared how he appreciated the camaraderie and continuous flow of communication between project officers and staff of BCDA and the Army. He notes that the relationship nurtured in building the project together enabled a better understanding of each other and faster communication between engineering teams and leaders. He emphasizes that this shows BCDA’s support for the endeavors of the Philippine Army, as well as the whole AFP.
“Kung walang BCDA, siguro di pa ganun kamodernized. Ang dami nyo nang nagawa under RA 7227. Yung congested facilities within Fort Bonifacio, world-class na patungo and at par na sa countries ng mga Training Commands.
Citing BCDA’s success under its mandate, Lt. Col. Menor expressed his appreciation for good relations. “I want to continue yung magandang pakikisama at pakikitungo natin, open ang line of communication at patuloy ang pagsuporta sa endeavors ng army. Maraming salamat.”
The Hero and his heroes
As a soldier, he sees himself as being fortunate to serve in the Philippine Army. He explains, “maraming nangangarap pero mas marami ang hindi pinalad na pumasok dito.”
He sees the whole experience of being a soldier as “amazing” in the sense that his little contribution as a military engineer has a big impact on his fellow soldiers and also to the country, foremost. He also is grateful for the stability offered by the government to our troops–for them to better take care of their families amidst their sacrifices. Also, being a soldier has given him the opportunity to travel to different areas, explore opportunities to improve situations and engage better with the community.
Lastly, if he was not a soldier, he would not cross paths with his wife, Aloha, whom he met at Infanta, Quezon Province during his missions.
Coming from a closely-knit family he shares that his vision is for his family to live in a secure, safe community, and for his children to finish school.
“Nakatali ako sa pamilya ko,” he begins but considers his oath of service to his country as a priority. “Dapat sabay. Hindi pwedeng pamilya bago trabaho kasi yan ang una naming asawa. We will do everything to protect the sovereignty of our country. Yan ang sinumpaan namin. Pero di pwedeng pamilya bago trabaho kasi di mo ma-push through ang dedication sa bayan if wasak ang pamilya mo.”
He was quick to name his wife as one of his heroes in life. “Napalaki nyang mabuti ang mga anak namin, Kaela Gabrielle and Kiesha Louise.”
He also considers his father a hero, the source of his guiding principles in life. “Namulat ako na tatay ko yung hero ko. He inspired me para pumasok dito during my younger years, at huwag manlamang sa kapwa. Gawin mong tama while expecting nothing in return.”
Eventually, it is Lt. Col. Menor’s desire to move forward with greater responsibilities in the military. By pursuing further studies, he envisions holding key positions in the future to better influence the younger generation and impart his knowledge with the goal of putting his organization first.
He then reflects on the meaning of heroism: “Heroism to me is an act of bravery, selflessness. Hindi pansarili ang iniisip pero para sa kapakanan ng iba. Maraming heroes dito sa military and some heroes are not directly involved in conflict areas but at the headquarters, supporting troops at the garrison.
True enough, Lt. Col. Menor’s passion for building is fueled by a deeper sense of duty—to serve his fellow troops and his country. From the frontlines of combat to the foundations of construction, he brings with him a rare blend of courage and craftsmanship. His work not only fortifies our defenses but also stands as a testament to how service can be rendered through both strength and structure.
Site inspection in preparation for the construction of four-storey quarters for the PA Officers’ Candidate School, TRACOM, PA.
BCDA reaffirms support to AFP through donations for Navy Scientists and Recreation Teams
by Massimo A. Torres
As part of its continuing commitment to support the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) has extended critical donations to boost the morale and welfare of both frontline military personnel and scientific teams behind national maritime efforts.
On May 25, BCDA, through its Saludo sa Sundalo Program, turned over 35 steel bunk beds with mattresses to the stay-in personnel of the Camp Aguinaldo Golf Course (CAGC) — a key recreational facility dedicated to the AFP community to promote the wellness of soldiers, retirees, and their families.
The improved sleeping accommodations aim to provide them with much needed comfort and rest, as a token of appreciation for their tireless service.
CAGC General Manager Commander Noel Stephen Marzan PN (MNSA) received the donation during a simple turnover ceremony held at New Clark City, highlighting the growing partnership between BCDA and AFP in enhancing the quality of life of its service people.
Troops unload donated equipment for CAGC’s stay-in personnel.
Turnover of donations to support AFP’s recreational facility. BCDA Procurement and Property Management Department Vice President Josefina Pe (middle) turn over bunk beds with mattreses to CAGC General Manager (GM) Commander Noel Stephen Marzan PN (MNSA). From left: Looking on are Property Division Head Desiree Paras, CSR and Stakeholder Relations Head Maricar Villamil and CAGC Assistant GM LTC Arnie Fernandez PA (GSC).
Earlier, on April 9, BCDA also turned over a set of office equipment and appliances to the Sealift Amphibious Force of the Philippine Navy, to support the daily operations of BRP Gregorio Velasquez (AGR702), the Navy’s oceanographic and research vessel.
BCDA Public Affairs Vice President Leilani Macasaet led the turnover ceremony, presenting the donations to Commander Susan Quisido PN (GSC), Commanding Officer of AGR702. The research vessel plays a crucial role in conducting hydrographic, oceanographic, and environmental studies, while also participating in humanitarian missions, search and rescue operations, and maritime security patrols.
“From the bottom of our hearts, we really appreciate your time, your effort, your contribution,” Commander Quisido said during the ceremony. “It is not really for us but for the service of the AFP.”
Both initiatives reflect BCDA’s broader Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) mission to uphold the well-being, morale, and operational readiness of the AFP. Whether on land or at sea, BCDA continues to stand in solidarity with the individuals who dedicate their lives to protecting the country.
BCDA hands over office equipment and appliances to BRP Gregorio Velasquez to uplift personnel morale and operational readiness. BCDA Vice President for Public Affairs Leilani Barlongay-Macasaet turns over a set of office equipment and appliances to the BRP Gregorio Velasquez officers and staff led by Commander Susan Quisido PN (GSC).
Pesonnel of the Sealift Amphibious Force receives the donated appliance for welfare support.
BCDA strengthens commitment to fallen soldiers’ families at 8th HERO Golf Cup
by Mariedel Irish U. Catilogo
The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) reaffirmed its support for the families of fallen military personnel at the 8th HERO Golf Cup 2025: Golf for a Cause for the Children of Fallen Soldiers. Organized by the HERO Foundation, Inc. (HFI), this annual charity event raises funds to provide educational assistance to the children of military troops who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.
Now in its fourth year of supporting HFI, BCDA remains committed to honoring the legacy of the nation’s heroes by helping secure the educational future of their children.
“BCDA stands in solidarity with the families of our fallen soldiers. By supporting their children's education, we honor the sacrifices of our troops and help build a brighter future for their loved ones,” said BCDA Vice President for Investment Promotions and Marketing Erwin Kenneth R. Peralta. “Education is a lasting tribute to their heroism, and we are proud to be part of this cause.”
HFI President Gen. Emmanuel Bautista AFP (Ret) expressed his appreciation for partners during the ceremonial tee off. “We thank [BCDA President and CEO] Jake Bingcang and the rest of BCDA for
HERO Foundation Inc. (HFI) President Gen. Emmanuel Bautista AFP (Ret) (middle) handover a check amounting to Php100,000.00 from BCDA represented by Vice President for Investment Promotion and Marketing Ken Peralta (2nd from left) as a support for the families of the fallen military personnel during the 8th HERO golf cup 2025 at Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City. Witnessing the event are (from left) BCDA CSR and Stakeholder Relations
Head Maricar Gay Villamil, HFI Ex-Officio member Gen. Noel Clement AFP (Ret), and HFI Executive Director MGen. Victor Agbayani AFP (Ret).
their assistance. The unwavering support of our partners ensures that we can sustain our mission of helping these children achieve their dreams. Our fallen soldiers have given their lives for our nation, and it is our duty to stand by their families. On behalf of our scholars, maraming salamat sa inyong lahat,” said Gen. Bautista.
The turnover ceremony for the donation was attended by Gen. Bautista, Peralta, HFI Ex-Officio Member Gen. Noel Clement AFP (Ret), HFI Executive Director MGen. Victor Bayani AFP (Ret), Camp Aguinaldo Golf Course General Manager Cdr Noel Stephen Marzan PN (MNSA), and BCDA Head of CSR & Stakeholder Relations-Public Affairs Department Maricar Villamil.
The Help Educate and Rear Orphans (HERO) Foundation is a key partner of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in ensuring that the children of military personnel who were killed or incapacitated in the line of duty have access to quality education and opportunities for a better future.
To date, HFI already has a total of 2,756 scholars which includes 1,261 college graduates and its current 232 scholars.
Strengthening environmental stewardship: Tree planting at Morong, Bataan
by Denver A. Moreno
BCDA joined the Philippine Marine Corps (PMC), local government representatives of Morong, Bataan and private partners last February 24 in a joint greening project dubbed “Tree Musketeers: Soldiers of the Trees” at the Bataan Technology Park in Morong, the future home of the PMC.
The event, which was led by Captain Rodilson M. Malic PN (M) MC7, gathered together PMC’s partners which included LGU representative Al Del Rosario, OB Montessori (Operation Brotherhood) Community Foundation Director Beverly Ciencia, YMCA of Makati, Inc. Chapter President Tomas C. Banguis, Morong Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Officer (MENRO) Project Development Assistant John Vincent M. Abes, and BCDA Vice President for Security Management Department BGen Henry G. Sabarre (Ret).
BCDA’s participation in this initiative also underscores its role in the relocation and replication of the new PMC headquarters from their current camp in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City to Morong, Bataan.
During the ceremony, VP Sabarre highlighted the importance of long-term commitment: “Hindi lang tree planting at growing ang kailangang gawin. Noong panahon ko sa army, meron din kaming tree parenting. Kailangan nating alagaan para lumago upang maging tunay na puno, malaki at matibay.”
A key contributor to the initiative was Operation Brotherhood Community Foundation, which enabled students to fund tree-planting activities through its Trash to Trees program. Recyclables they collected from their five campuses were converted to cash, allowing the youths to fund greening initiatives. As a result, they were able to contribute 300 saplings during the event.
1. BCDA, Philippine Marine Corps (PMC), LGU Representatives, and private partners join forces for a tree planting activity at the Bataan Technology Park, Morong, Bataan.
2. (From left) LGU representative Al Del Rosario, BCDA Vice President for Security Management Department BGen. Henry G. Sabarre AFP (Ret), OB Montessori (Operation Brotherhood) Community Foundation Director Beverly Ciencia and PMC representative Cpt. Rodilson M. Malic PN(M) pose for a gesture of solidarity among partners to kick-off the environmental activity.
We build great cities while we help strengthen our Armed Forces.
The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) is a government-owned and—controlled corporation (GOCC), which lives by its core function: to help strengthen the Armed Forces while building great cities.
It is vested with corporate powers under Republic Act (RA) 7227 or the Bases Conversion and Development Act of 1992: “An Act Accelerating the Conversion of Military Reservations Into Other Productive Uses, Creating the Bases Conversion and Development Authority For This Purpose, Providing Funds Therefor And For Other Purposes.”
The Republic Act 7227 was signed into law by former President Corazon C. Aquino, on March 13, 1992. The BCDA Charter was amended by RA 7917 in 1995, and further amended by RA 9400 in 2007.
EDITORIAL TEAM
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Leilani Barlongay-Macasaet
EXECUTIVE EDITOR
Maricar Gay S. Savella-Villamil
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Garry A. Cativo
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Garry A. Cativo, Zilpah I. Tabanera WRITERS
Chrisee Jalyssa V. dela Paz
Mary Grace C. Padin
Maricar Gay S. Savella-Villamil
Marianne B. Royulada
PHOTOGRAPHY
Samuel Luke M. Galivo
John Emil C. Flores
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