New Clark City, Tarlac, Philippines — The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) recently teamed up with the Philippine Rugby Football Union (PRFU) and the national rugby team, the Philippine Volcanoes, to inspire young members of the communities in Tarlac by hosting a rugby clinic in New Clark City, Capas, Tarlac. Themed “Empowering Youths, Celebrating Heritage,” the activity gathered around 30 youths from Sitio Tilik and Sitio Telapilun, Brgy. San Roque in Bamban, and Brgy. Sta. Lucia in Capas in a rugby clinic held at the New Clark City Athletics Stadium.  Teaching them are members of the Philippine Volcanoes who excitedly introduced rugby as a sport through group activities that inspired the young to embrace an active lifestyle and appreciate the values of teamwork, discipline, and resilience. The initiative marked the second time BCDA has partnered with the rugby national team, reinforcing its commitment to grassroots sports and youth development. In welcoming partners and guests, BCDA Vice President for Public Affairs Leilani Barlongay-Macasaet highlighted the Authority’s commitment to its stakeholders and to building a strong foundation for the future of sports in the Philippines at New Clark City–home to the National Academy of Sports. “By hosting this event, we give greater meaning to what New Clark City is to us.  This metropolis fuels an enabling experience, a nurturing place for learning, dreaming and realizing these dreams. A sustainable development that is meant to benefit all,” Macasaet said. PRFU President Ada Milby said the rugby clinic builds on last year’s successful engagement with New Clark City communities, where PRFU also conducted grassroots training. ”We just want to bring rugby to more communities. We want to just continue growing the sport, that way, whether you want to play rugby or you want to watch rugby, that there’s a place for you to go,” Ms. Milby said. As part of the engagement, BCDA also introduced the players to its community development initiatives, particularly the Ayta Ethno Botanical Center (AEBC) in New Clark City.   Delivering a lecture on community empowerment and culture integration is AEBC Project Manager and University of the Philippines Professor Florencia Charito Imperial-Sebastian, PhD.  Through the AEBC, BCDA, with the Pampanga State Agricultural University (PSAU), and the Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office 3, continues to empower indigenous communities with sustainable farming practices and long-term livelihood prospects. The collaboration between PRFU and BCDA underscores their shared vision to foster sports development and community empowerment, while celebrating the rich heritage of the indigenous peoples of Tarlac. The rugby clinic was held on September 13, 2025, while the Volcanoes were in training at New Clark City in preparation for the Asia Rugby Emirates Sevens Series, a sporting event where the top eight rugby clubs in Asia compete. Currently the Women’s Volcanoes ranked 11th in Asia following its win against Indonesia at the Hangzhou Normal University in China.  Meanwhile, the Men’s Volcanoes ranked 12 after bowing to Thailand in their final match.  The next leg of the series in Sri Lanka on October 18–19, 2025.  Our national team is also gearing up for the Southeast Asian Games this December in Thailand, where the Volcanoes will defend their gold and silver medals in the men’s and women’s categories, respectively.                  

New Clark City, Philippines — The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) has secured three deals with Japanese government and private sector partners to advance the development of BCDA-managed properties, particularly in the fields of waste management, renewable energy, telecommunications, and sustainable development. During an official mission to Tokyo, Japan, BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Joshua M. Bingcang signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Japanese industrial and engineering firm Kanadevia Corporation (KVC) for the conduct of preliminary feasibility studies on the development of a waste-to-energy (WTE) facility in New Clark City in Capas, Tarlac. This project aligns with the BCDA’s goal of transforming New Clark City into a green and resilient metropolis by introducing sustainable solutions and fostering a circular economy. BCDA also signed another MOU with Japanese telecommunications firms IPS Inc. and InfiniVAN Inc. to explore potential collaborative projects that will maximize the utilization of BCDA’s information and communications technology (ICT) assets in the Poro Point Freeport Zone in La Union and other BCDA-administered zones. This will contribute to the implementation of the Luzon Bypass Infrastructure Program by ensuring that high-speed internet connectivity reaches local communities and benefits Filipinos. Lastly, the BCDA formalized its partnership with the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) for the development and promotion of BCDA projects that champion energy transition and support environmental and social sustainability.  Under this MOU, JBIC will help reinforce the BCDA’s relations with the Japanese business community and promote Japanese companies’ participation in BCDA’s green and sustainable initiatives. JBIC has also expressed its willingness to consider strategic funding options to support such projects. “With our Japanese partners, we are advancing projects that tackle waste management through renewable energy, strengthen digital connectivity for communities, and promote sustainable development in our economic zones. More than infrastructure, these collaborations will deliver direct benefits to Filipinos by creating jobs, attracting investments, and improving quality of life. BCDA is proud to stand with Japan in shaping a greener, smarter, and more resilient Philippines,” said Engr. Bingcang. The signing of the three MOUs was held on 30 September, Tuesday, at the Philippine Embassy in Tokyo as part of the BCDA’s four-day official mission to Tokyo, which will run until 03 October, Friday.  These agreements signify the strong economic relations between the Japanese and Philippine governments, as well as the confidence of Japanese organizations in BCDA’s capacity to drive sustainable development, foster innovation, and implement transformative projects across its economic zones. “These agreements are more than just documents; they represent a shared commitment to collaboration, innovation, and sustainable growth. We are confident that these MOUs will pave the way for more meaningful business opportunities, foster stronger partnerships, and deliver tangible benefits not only to the companies involved but also to the broader Philippine-Japan economic relationship,” Philippine Ambassador to Japan Mylene De Joya Garcia-Albano said. Aside from the signing of these MOUs, the delegation will also meet with the Japan Overseas Infrastructure Investment Corporation for Transport and Urban Development to align directions and strategies for the development of New Clark City. The BCDA team will also conduct a site visit to the Shinagawa Waste-to-Energy Plant to benchmark WTE operations and observe the management and technical aspects of the facilities.  

CITY OF MALOLOS, Philippines – The province of Bulacan has once again earned national recognition for its excellence in good governance and economic development after securing a spot in the Top 5 Local Government Units under the Province Level for this year’s Most Business-Friendly Local Government Unit Awards given by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry recently. This prestigious recognition emphasizes the Provincial Government of Bulacan’s unwavering commitment to promote a business-enabling environment through innovative programs, sustained support for the province’s Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and fostering an environment for sustainable economic growth. Bulacan’s consistent performance in this category solidifies the province’s reputation as a leading economic hub in Central Luzon, largely due to its government’s proactive approach. Governor Daniel R. Fernando expressed his gratitude for the recognition and said that the province of Bulacan is always open for new opportunities to invest and create partnerships. “Ang parangal na ito ay isang testamento ng kasipagan at dedikasyon ng ating lalawigan at lahat ng nakakatuwang natin sa pagnenegosyo sa Bulacan. Patuloy po nating ipatutupad ang mga patakarang makapagpapadali ng pagnenegosyo sa ating lalawigan upang dumami pa ang trabaho at mga oportunidad para sa ating mga mamamayan,” the governor said. He also added that the PGB is committed to providing seamless support for both local and foreign investors. The other four provinces who were recognized alongside Bulacan were Bataan, Cavite, Camarines Sur and Iloilo. PCCI’s annual search for the Most Business-Friendly LGUs aims to recognize local government units that have demonstrated exceptional efforts in instituting good governance reforms, improving business services, and fostering a competitive local economy.(Bulacan PIO)

By Ruben A. Veloria   SUBIC BAY FREEPORT, Philippines – The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) revealed three big-ticket infrastructure projects before the American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines, Inc. (AMCHAM)-North Luzon during the latter’s visit here,recently. During the Subic Freeport leg of its visit to economic districts in the country, SBMA Senior Deputy Administrator (SDA) for Business and Investment Renato Lee III welcomed AMCHAM President Denise H. R. Molintas at the SBMA corporate boardroom. Department of Transportation (DOTR) Planning Service Director Felicisimo C. Pangilinan Jr. also shared a few insights on the various projects that would boost businesses in Luzon. According to Lee, SBMA is planning to create a new cruise ship berth at the Redondo Peninsula where cruise ships can unload their passengers at the said facility. He added that the ₱1.2-billion facility will have a quay length of 380 meters for berth 1, and 350 meters for berth 2. Lee cited that the reclamation for the cruise passenger terminal and cruise leisure and commercial area would cost ₱8.3 billion. The agency is also intending to redevelop Boton Wharf into a 12.8-hectare terminal with a berthing length of 920 meters. The project will have five warehouses with a floor area of 5,000 square meters each. To complement these projects are the construction of administration offices, staging areas, access roads, rehabilitation of existing road networks, and the installation of shore power. Meanwhile, Lee disclosed that while still in its preparatory stage, a multi-purpose terminal will also be constructed at the Redondo Peninsula which will provide access and support to the area, with a total area of 30 hectares, a quay length of 600 meters, and a depth of 12 meters. It will involve the construction of warehouses, an administration building, truck parking, and weighing scale, offices, and facilities for workers.        

Clark Freeport Zone, Pampanga, Philippines — The Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) has signed memoranda of understanding (MOUs) with three Singapore-based aviation firms Dviation Training Centre Sdn. Bhd., Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University–Asia Ltd., and ST Engineering Urban Solutions Ltd., marking a major step toward the development of the Clark International Aviation Campus. The agreements were signed during the Asia-Pacific Conference and Exhibition on Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) held in Singapore from 16 to 19 September 2025. “Aviation in Singapore is a key component of its successful economy, and we’re fortunate to forge mutually beneficial relationships with leading institutions here,” Alcazar said. He added that the partnerships are aimed at sharing expertise to help establish Clark’s own Clark International Aviation Campus as part of its Seven Flagship Projects, a key component of CIAC’s broader vision to transform Clark into the country’s premier aviation and logistics hub. The first MOU, signed on 17 September with Dviation Training Centre Chief Executive Officer Ibnu Hidayat Ishak, focuses on cooperation in aviation training and development.  The Dviation Group provides comprehensive aviation services including aircraft acquisition, operations, and technical support. On 18 September, Alcazar signed another agreement with ST Engineering Urban Solutions Ltd., represented by its president, Gareth Tang, to explore collaboration in developing smart city and aviation technologies at the Clark aviation complex.  The initiative aims to support the area’s growth through sustainable and intelligent infrastructure. Also on 18 September, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University–Asia Ltd. (ERAU-Asia) Vice Chancellor Matthew Flaherty signed an MOU to explore joint efforts in aviation education, training, and workforce development.  Embry-Riddle is globally recognized as one of the largest universities specializing in aviation and aerospace. “These partnerships affirm CIAC’s commitment to building strong ties with global industry leaders to advance Clark’s role as a leading aviation hub in the Philippines,” Alcazar said. The Clark International Aviation Campus is part of the broader Clark Aviation Capital, which includes the Clark International Airport, Clark Global City, and over 60 locators across aviation, logistics, commercial, and manufacturing sectors. The complex is managed by CIAC and positioned as the country’s premier aviation-related and logistics complex.  

By Ruben A.Veloria   SUBIC BAY FREEPORT, Philippines – The residential cruise ship Villa Vie Odyssey docked at this Freeport on Tuesday morning as its maiden ship call here. Officials and employees of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), along with representatives from the Bureau of Immigration, Bureau of Quarantine, and other stakeholders, welcome the passengers and crew of the cruise ship M/V Villa Vie Odyssey. Some 650 passengers disembarked from the cruise ship will be staying until tomorrow, while her passengers visit the many tourism destinations here. The Villa Vie Odyssey is a residential cruise ship offering a unique, full-time world cruise experience for residents, or “global residents,” who purchase cabins for long-term stays, rather than traditional shorter cruises. Once known as the Braemar, the 924-passenger ship was purchased by Villa Vie Residences in 2023 and underwent a significant refurbishment before its 2024 launch. The ship is designed to be smaller than mega-ships, allowing access to smaller, unique ports, and features a variety of amenities, including dining, pools, a gym with Peloton bikes, and community spaces for activities like art and fitness classes.            

  PAMPANGA, Philippines – President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. granted the Provincial Government of Zambales special patents for two educational institutions during the distribution of land titles in San Ferando City, this province, on September 19. Zambales Governor Hermogenes Ebdane Jr. personally received from the President the two special patents for Iba Elementary School, and Zambales National High School. A special patent is a document granted by the government that confirms the transfer of ownership to the grantee over a parcel of public land for government use, such as public schools. “This is momentous day for our educational history,” said Gov. Ebdane, adding that for more than a century, the two Zambales schools are sitting on government land. “Now, they are on their own property.” In 1913, then Congressman Alejo Labrador established a vocational school in a property donated by the province. The school later became Zambales National High School, however, the property remains owned by the local government, until the awarding of special patent. The two special patents were among the 11 special patents awarded by the President during the “Handog ng Pangulo: Financial Assistance to Farmworkers and Distribution of Titles” ceremony held in San Fernando, Pampanga. Present during the ceremony were Pampanga Gov. Lilia Pineda, DSWD Sec. Rex Gachalian, DPWH Sec. Vivencio Dizon, and DENR Sec. Rafael Lotilla, and thousands of farm workers from across Region I, II, III, V, IV-A, and CAR. Under the vison of Bagong Pilipinas, the President distributed 520 land patents and deeds of sale to beneficiaries, five (5) for agricultural free patents, 11 special patents, and three (3) deeds of sale. The program aligns with the President’s directive for bureaucratic efficiency by simplifying land titling processes, reducing disputes and improving transparency in land management. It is an ongoing initiative where qualified recipients are granted land ownership rights by the DENR’s regional and field offices through land patent issuance under Commonwealth Act 141, as amended by Republic Act (R.A.) No. 11573, R.A. No. 10023 or the Residential Free Patent Act, and Proclamation No. 172, along with other legal requirements.  

BULACAN, Philippines — Bulacan is carving out its place as one of the country’s fastest-growing provinces, balancing its historic identity with a modern push toward development. With an official vision of becoming a first-world province by 2040, digital connectivity has become a core requirement for households, schools, and businesses. Globe is answering this call with accelerated tower builds in Malolos, San Jose del Monte, Santa Maria and several other towns. Key Growth Areas for Expansion Malolos, the provincial capital, continues to attract businesses, schools, and government agencies that require steady digital access. San Jose del Monte, the most populated city in Central Luzon, is undergoing rapid urbanization, driving demand for wider mobile and internet coverage. In Santa Maria, where dense communities and growing commercial activity push up data use, Globe’s network expansion ensures families and entrepreneurs are better served. Beyond the Urban Hubs Globe is not only focusing on urban centers. New towers have been completed in Meycauayan and in the towns of Bocaue, Pulilan, San Ildefonso, San Miguel, Guiguinto, Norzagaray, and Plaridel. These areas are home to a mix of industrial zones, residential communities, and small enterprises that all rely on dependable connectivity to thrive. Real Benefits for Communities The stronger network answers real needs. Families can access online government services, manage telehealth consultations, and enjoy entertainment without interruption. MSMEs can expand operations online, market their products beyond Bulacan, and use digital payment platforms more reliably. Students and teachers gain more stable access to e-learning tools, leveling the playing field with peers in bigger cities. Affordable Options for Every Need Globe backs up its network builds with affordable options for customers. Prepaid subscribers can enjoy Go+99 with complimentary 5G data, while TM users can stretch their budgets through EZ50 5G. For those requiring consistent performance, GPlan postpaid packages and Globe At Home broadband bring stable high-speed service for households and enterprises alike. Fast-Tracking Bulacan’s Digital Growth These infrastructure projects highlight Globe’s commitment to bridging digital gaps and supporting Bulacan’s transformation as a leading province in Central Luzon. Stronger networks make it possible for the province to meet the needs of its people today while also laying the groundwork for long-term economic growth.