The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing the Philippines’ infrastructure development, showcasing key strides in its flagship New Clark City project.

During the 15th Philippines-Japan High-Level Joint Committee Meeting on Infrastructure Development and Economic Cooperation, held on March 24, 2025, BCDA President and CEO Engr. Joshua M. Bingcang highlighted major developments in New Clark City, a crucial part of the government’s ongoing efforts to build a sustainable, smart, and resilient urban hub.

One of the significant milestones shared was BCDA’s partnership with Science Park of the Philippines Inc. (SPPI) for the development of a 100-hectare industrial park. Through this collaboration, SPPI is working closely with Japanese companies to attract high-value manufacturing and technology investments, further enhancing the area’s economic potential.

BCDA is also pioneering the introduction of a first-of-its-kind AI-based Smart Mobility System within New Clark City, developed in collaboration with Zenmov and the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO). This innovative system incorporates low-carbon transport solutions and autonomous Public Utility Vehicles (PUVs). A final report on the pilot program, set to be released in the third quarter of 2025, will provide essential insights into the city’s future mass transit systems.

“With Japan’s support, we are making significant progress in transforming New Clark City into a smart, sustainable, and thriving economic hub,” said Engr. Bingcang in his speech.

BCDA is also working closely with the Japan Overseas Infrastructure Investment Corporation for Transport and Urban Development (JOIN) to expedite the implementation of the New Clark City master plan. The focus is on preparing a comprehensive business case for estate management services, which will ensure the efficient and sustainable operation of the city as more locators set up in the area.

In his address, Engr. Bingcang extended an invitation to Japanese businesses to explore the opportunities New Clark City offers, encouraging them to take advantage of the enhanced incentives provided by the Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises to Maximize Opportunities for Reinvigorating the Economy (CREATE MORE) Act.

“These initiatives highlight the strong and enduring partnership between BCDA and Japan in shaping the future of New Clark City. We invite more Japanese businesses to join us on this exciting journey,” he said.

The meeting was co-chaired by the National Economic and Development Authority and the Department of Finance on the Philippine side, and the Special Advisor to the Prime Minister on the Japanese side.

As part of the Marcos administration’s Build Better More program, BCDA’s work in transforming Clark into an investment hub is expected to ease congestion in Metro Manila and spark economic growth across Central and Northern Luzon. The Clark metropolitan area, which includes Clark International Airport, Clark Freeport Zone, and New Clark City, is set to play a pivotal role in the nation’s development. Once fully developed, New Clark City will cover 9,450 hectares and is projected to house over a million residents while providing job opportunities to approximately 600,000 Filipinos.