The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) continues to champion inclusive growth and sustainability through the Ayta Ethno-Botanical Center (AEBC) — a pioneering agricultural training hub that equips indigenous Ayta farmers with modern, climate-smart farming skills and access to markets and livelihood opportunities.
Led by BCDA President and CEO Engr. Joshua M. Bingcang, the AEBC integrates traditional Ayta knowledge with modern agricultural innovation, fostering a sustainable, community-driven approach to farming. Located on a 10-hectare site in Sitio Binyayan, Capas, the center trains farmers in rice, coffee, mango, and high-value crop production while teaching post-harvest handling, agripreneurship, and climate resilience.
“This role is truly meaningful because it contributes to our bigger goal of ensuring food security,” Bingcang said. “We want our indigenous partners to take part in New Clark City’s progress — to harness their skills and strengths in agriculture and turn them into sustainable livelihoods.”
Now on its 14th week, the AEBC aims to empower 300 Ayta farmers in Capas and Bamban through hands-on training in partnership with Pampanga State Agricultural University (PSAU) and the Department of Agriculture Region III.
Recent sessions saw Ayta farmers harvesting 43 kilos of eggplants and 6.5 kilos of green chili, alongside completing modules on Climate Resilience in Agriculture. Sitio Binyayan Chieftain Berling Capiz expressed gratitude for the project, calling it a “big help” that has strengthened their community’s confidence and livelihood.
BCDA Executive Vice President Atty. Gisela Z. Kalalo emphasized the agency’s goal of supporting both economic empowerment and cultural preservation.
“We are happy to help sustain your culture while opening opportunities for growth,” she said. “Our mission goes beyond engaging investors—it’s about uplifting Filipino communities.”
The AEBC initiative reinforces BCDA’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those focused on ending poverty, achieving zero hunger, promoting decent work, and encouraging responsible consumption and production.
By empowering indigenous communities through sustainable agriculture, BCDA ensures that the development of New Clark City remains inclusive, resilient, and people-centered.#PeopleCenteredDevelopment
