In a collective effort to empower local communities and preserve cultural heritage, the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) has partnered with Hann Philippines Inc. (HPI) and Hann Foundation Inc. (HFI) to create a Php5 million multi-purpose pavilion at the Ayta Ethno Botanical Center (AEBC) in New Clark City, Tarlac.
On March 21, BCDA President and CEO Joshua M. Bingcang, HFI Executive Director Ana Christi G. Galura, and HPI Director of Corporate Finance Sheila M. Rivera signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) for the construction of this key facility. The pavilion will provide a venue for training, meetings, assemblies, exhibits, and other activities aimed at protecting and preserving Ayta culture and heritage. The event was also attended by Sitio Binyayan Tribal Council Chairman Berling Capis and other members of the local community.
“In New Clark City, our goal is to ensure that economic growth and development benefit all sectors of society, especially our local Aeta communities,” said Engr. Bingcang. “We are committed to empowering our stakeholders and making the AEBC a cornerstone for agricultural education, innovation, and environmental stewardship.”
The AEBC is a 10-hectare project designed to strengthen the agricultural capabilities of local farmers and fisherfolk, particularly the Aeta communities in Pampanga and Tarlac. This collaboration with the Department of Agriculture (DA) Regional Field Office III and Pampanga State Agricultural University (PSAU) aims to boost food security and provide sustainable livelihood opportunities while promoting environmental conservation.
“The AEBC demonstrates how the combined efforts of government and the private sector can make a meaningful impact,” said Galura. “Beyond promoting cultural heritage and agricultural innovation, the project also fosters employment and entrepreneurship. By imparting valuable skills and knowledge, we are preparing the Aeta and Capampangan communities to thrive as future colleagues and business partners at Hann.”
The project will be implemented in three phases. The first phase will include the construction of the multi-purpose pavilion, a ceremonial ground, a market, a coffee shop, a tamarind orchard, a coffee farm, and a pond. Phase 2 will add a mango orchard, picnic areas, and natural trails, while Phase 3 will feature rice terraces, a bamboo grove, a dormitory, and a viewing deck.
Under the MOA, HFI will finance and oversee the construction of the pavilion in alignment with the conceptual plans developed by the BCDA and PSAU. The BCDA will handle the structural and architectural design of the pavilion, while the overall management of the AEBC will be a collaborative effort between the BCDA and PSAU.
This partnership marks the beginning of a long-term commitment between the BCDA and Hann to ensure the sustainability of the AEBC project. In addition to funding the pavilion, Hann has pledged to support AEBC beneficiaries through livelihood programs and assistance, as well as by curating the Ayta Museum.
The AEBC aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 2 (Zero Hunger), Goal 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and Goal 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), reinforcing its commitment to building a sustainable, inclusive, and prosperous future for the Aeta communities in New Clark City.
