The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) has hailed the strong collaborative efforts of its subsidiaries, Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) and John Hay Management Corporation (JHMC) as a pivotal step towards enhancing the competitiveness of Clark and Camp John Hay, offering to extend strategic guidance and resources to help the two agencies realize impactful results from the partnership. On 26 June 2025, CIAC and JHMC inked a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to strengthen cooperation in crafting unified programs and exchanging of best practices to support the growth of the Clark Aviation Capital and the John Hay Special Economic Zone. BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Joshua M. Bingcang said this partnership will help enhance the region’s overall investment competitiveness and create the scale needed for the country to compete with its ASEAN neighbors. “This partnership sends a clear signal: collaboration is our competitive edge,” said Engr. Bingcang. “If we want to go head-to-head with our ASEAN neighbors, we need scale, synergy, and a unified front. BCDA stands ready to provide strategic guidance and resources to make this partnership a success.” “We expect that concrete developments will emerge from this partnership. On the part of BCDA, we are more than willing to provide support and funding,” he added. Under the MOU, CIAC will share its experience on building robust investment plans and compelling brand narratives. JHMC, meanwhile, will assist CIAC in implementing a forest management and urban renewal program, in line with both agencies’ sustainability thrust. This also sets the stage for collaboration in other areas, with CIAC and JHMC leveraging their core competencies to drive future initiatives. “Our collaboration opens the door to various areas of joint interest — including research and development, training and internship programs, aviation industry initiatives, tourism and investment promotion, and human resource development,” said CIAC President and CEO Joseph Alcazar. JHMC President and CEO Manjit T. Singh Reandi added: “this memorandum of understanding reflects a clear alignment of purpose: to promote mobility, tourism, and inclusive economic development. More than that, it is a statement of our mutual confidence in what we can achieve together when we break down silos and build bridges between our institutions.” Following the formalization of the MOU, Engr. Bingcang urged other BCDA subsidiaries to emulate this model of collaboration, highlighting its importance in realizing the shared vision of excellence and national development. “There’s no monopoly in great ideas. I look forward to more collaborations where BCDA can provide strategic guidance in terms of impact in national development,” he said.                

By Ruben Veloria SUBIC BAY FREEPORT- Zambales 1st District Rep. Jefferson “Jay” Khonghun pampered children with cerebral palsy and their parents to thanks giving and gift giving party to celebrate his natal day on Tuesday (July 2) in this Freeport. In a cozy and comfortable pizza house here, Cong. Jay Khonghun celebrated his birthday along with 40 children with cerebral palsy from Olongapo City and Subic, Zambales, accompanied by their parents, and siblings. “It is so important for me to be with the greatest mothers who never give up despite the sacrifices they endure for their children (Napakahalagang araw ngayon para sa akin na makasama ko sa aking karaarawan ang mga dakilang ina na hindi sinusukuan ang pagsakripisyo sa kanilang mga anak),” said Khonghun. The young solon continued as saying, “Your children (affected with cerebral palsy) are blessings from heaven, for you to show the meaning of true love and affection.” The birthday celebration was filled with party games for mothers, bubble shows, magic and tricks for kids, and gift giving, and sumptuous food for all. Cong. Jay Khonghun assured the parents that he and his office are always ready to provide them all available assistance they could provide. “Please don’t worry too much. We are here to help you in all ways we could provide (Huwag kayong mag-alala dahil narito kamipara makatulong sa inyong pangangailangan),” Khonghn said. Meanwhile, Mayflor De Guzman, president of Special Kidz Therapy Group based in Olongapo City, lauded the young solon for his continued support to the Group especially by providing moral and financial supports for the affected children. Speaking for her group, Olongapo City Cerebral Palsy Society (OCCPS) president Jennie Judar, express their warmest gratitude for Cong. Jay Khonghun who never failed to help them. The office of Cong. Jay Khonghun provides medical assistance to children with cerebral palsy for their neuro check-ups and other services which are done in Pampanga; wheel chairs, and vitamins. “These assistance is our advocacy, and we will continue these efforts so that we will always be within reach in taking care of our constituents with cerebral palsy,” Khonghun said. According to National Institutes of Health (NIH), in 2022, there were 11,268 new cases of Cerebral Palsy (CP) recorded in the Philippines among the population under 18 years old or 1.6 per 1,000 live births.        

CLARK FREEPORT ZONE, Pampanga  — The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) will soon establish a new Regional Disaster Response Command and Logistics Center for Region III at the Clark Aviation Capital complex in this Freeport. Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) President Jojit Alcazar expressed full support for the project, highlighting its critical role in strengthening disaster response across Central Luzon. “We welcome the establishment of this command and logistics center at Clark Aviation Capital. It will serve as a strategic storage and distribution point for relief goods and supplies, ensuring faster and more effective DSWD operations during emergencies in Central Luzon. This is part of CIAC’s contribution to national disaster preparedness,” Alcazar said. DSWD officials led by Secretary Rex Gatchalian, Undersecretary Diana Rose Cajipe, Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao, and CDC Director Atty. Nicolette Henson-Hizon visited the proposed site yesterday, accompanied by Pampanga Governor Lilia “Nanay” Pineda, PGENRO Chief Art Punsalan, and CIAC Director Rommel Santiago. The one-hectare site, located within the CIAC-managed Clark Civil Aviation Complex, will be designed to enable the rapid deployment of relief and response operations when disasters strike. This project forms part of CIAC’s broader strategy to transform the Clark Civil Aviation Complex into a premier logistics hub. Earlier initiatives have already paved the way for logistics facilities of other agencies, such as the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, the Bureau of Fire Protection, and Philippine Pharma Procurement, Inc. In addition to the upcoming DSWD center, Clark is also home to key national disaster management facilities, including the Philippine Disaster Recovery Foundation (PDRF), the National Government Administrative Center (NGAC), and the Integrated Operations Center for Disaster Response Management — underscoring Clark’s disaster-resilient features and strategic proximity to an international airport, seaport, and major road networks.                            

By Ruben A.Veloria   Subic, Zambales- In a step toward bridging the digital divide in remote communities, a Starlink satellite internet system was turned over to Aningway-Sacatihan Elementary and High Schools in Sitio Gala, Subic, Zambales on Thursday, June 27. The turnover ceremony was witnessed by key representatives from the Department of Education, local government units, and CoinEx Charity, the organization behind the donation. Also in attendance were Janjo Khonghun, Chief of Staff of Zambales 1st District Representative Jay Khonghun, and Subic Mayor Jon Khonghun, who both reaffirmed their commitment to improving education access for underserved communities. The newly installed Starlink system is expected to dramatically enhance access to digital learning tools for both students and teachers—especially in Sitio Gala, a geographically isolated area previously without mobile signal or internet connectivity. “On behalf of Congressman Jay Khonghun and the 1st District of Zambales, we extend our heartfelt thanks to CoinEx Charity for this generous donation,” said Janjo Khonghun during the ceremony. “Many dreams from Sitio Gala are reaching us, and many children here are counting on compassionate people like you. Thank you very much.” Del Omasas, Country Project Manager of CoinEx Charity Philippines, expressed gratitude for the school’s warm welcome and outlined future plans. “We hope to return with more programs- including a mini-library and financial literacy training for students,” Omasas said, while thanking officials and students of Aningway-Sacatihan Elementary and High School for allowing CoinEx to be part of this transformative initiative. Meanwhile, Alexander C. Viado, School Head of the high school, underscored the long-awaited impact of the project. “We express our sincere thanks for finally receiving internet connectivity through CoinEx Charity. We’ve waited years for this moment, and now our dream is a reality. No longer will we be left behind. Our students can stay informed and feel connected to the wider world,” Viado said. William Ramos, head of the Elementary School, expressed heartfelt gratitude on behalf of both the elementary and high school communities. “We have waited for this moment for many years, and now our dream has finally come true,” he said. The event was highlighted by a moving cultural performance from the Aeta students, celebrating their heritage and expressing deep appreciation through traditional dance. “We were deeply touched by the warm welcome and the beautiful cultural presentation by the Aeta students,” Omasas shared. “At CoinEx Charity, we believe in empowering underserved communities through education and technology. This Starlink installation—and the printers we’ve also donated—is just one step in providing students with the tools they need to succeed. Seeing their smiles and determination fuels our mission.”                

The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), in partnership with the Department of Budget and Management, is set to start the construction of a new Php360-million dormitory for student-athletes at the National Academy of Sports (NAS) in New Clark City, Capas, Tarlac. During NAS’s fifth founding anniversary celebration on 18 June 2025, BCDA President and CEO Engr. Joshua M. Bingcang announced that the construction of the five-storey, 1,500-square-meter facility, which will house up to 400 student-athletes, is set for completion in 2026. The dormitory will feature 14 quad-sharing rooms for female students and 14 squad-sharing rooms for male students. It will also include an atrium, dining hall, recreational spaces, a kitchen and dishwashing area, administrative offices, and laundry and utility rooms—ensuring a well-rounded and supportive living environment for the student-athletes. “The presence of NAS in New Clark City reflects BCDA’s belief that investing in our youth is essential to nation-building,” said Engr. Bingcang. “By equipping our young athletes with world-class resources and facilities, we are not only developing champions in sports—we are nurturing the future leaders of our country.” Supporting this initiative is DBM, which reaffirmed its commitment to NAS’s long-term vision. “Our student-athletes deserve nothing less than a world-class environment where they can train harder, dream bigger, and shine brighter,” said DBM Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman. “Thanks to BCDA, every part of this campus—from classrooms to courts—was built not only to inspire, but to demonstrate our commitment to helping young athletes realize their full potential.” Lawmakers also expressed their continued support for the development of NAS. Senators Sherwin Gatchalian and Bong Go—who recently visited the NAS campus—highlighted the role of education and infrastructure in supporting the country’s athletic potential. “Gamitin natin itong oportunidad para hasain ang ating mga sarili at higit sa lahat, magdala ng karangalan para sa ating bansa. Kami ay naniniwala sa inyong talento at naniniwala kami na kayo ang magiging future leaders ng ating bansa,” said Senator Gatchalian, Chairperson of the Committee on Basic Education, Arts and Culture. “(Let us make the most of this opportunity to hone our skills and, more importantly, bring pride to our country. We believe in your talent and in your potential as future leaders.)” “The success of NAS is a victory for the Filipino youth,” added Senator Go, Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Sports and co-author of Republic Act No. 11470, also known as the National Academy of Sports Act. “I remain deeply committed to initiatives that empower our youth to pursue excellence in both academics and athletics.” In addition to the new dormitory, construction is also ongoing for a new gymnasium and dedicated gymnastics court. Currently, NAS is home to 270 student-athletes enrolled in various academic and athletic disciplines. With the addition of new facilities, New Clark City continues to emerge as a premier destination for world-class sports infrastructure—shaping not just athletes, but future champions of the nation.

  Globe Chief Commercial Officer Darius Delgado joins the official launch of the Bayanihan SIM Project at Kalawakan Elementary School in Bulacan. This project extends connectivity to one of the country’s most remote communities, with each beneficiary receiving a monthly allocation of 25GB.   500 Students, Teachers, and Parents in Kalawakan Receive SIMs with Free Monthly Data Doña Remedios Trinidad, Bulacan – In line with national efforts to close the digital divide, Globe and the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) launched the Bayanihan SIM initiative at Kalawakan Elementary School in Doña Remedios Trinidad, a Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Area (GIDA) in Bulacan. In the true spirit of bayanihan, GCash, Department of Education, Department of Interior and Local Government, and Philippine Statistics Authority collaborated with DICT and Globe for this kickoff event, embodying the collective effort to bridge the digital divide. The ceremonial launch marked the distribution of Globe-powered TM SIMs, each loaded with 25GB of monthly open-access data, to 500 students, teachers, and parents. Each SIM card was activated on-site, with Globe personnel assisting in registration and data configuration. Beneficiaries also received an additional 5GB upon activation, with the opportunity to unlock 15GB more by loading ₱150 per month for the first three months—reinforcing the program’s goal to encourage digital habits, literacy, and inclusion at scale. The initiative is anchored on Republic Act No. 10929, or the Free Internet Access in Public Places Act, and aims to promote digital inclusion by enabling learning, livelihood, and access to essential government services in far-flung communities. Beyond infrastructure, Bayanihan SIM is designed to create real, everyday impact. With connectivity now in hand, students can stream DepEd TV lessons, access Khan Academy for supplemental learning, or join online group work via Facebook Messenger. Teachers can manage digital classrooms, distribute materials, and attend online training sessions on platforms like Zoom. Parents meanwhile can explore livelihood and financial tools through online Facebook group ThisisKwela, access GCash for safe digital transactions, and tap into e-commerce, fintech, and health-tech platforms to improve quality of life. “Guided by the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to ensure that no Filipino is left offline, this initiative goes beyond simply distributing SIM cards, it is a bold step toward closing the digital divide for millions of our countrymen,” said DICT Secretary Henry Aguda. “Through our partnership with Globe, we are ensuring that even the most underserved communities are included in the country’s digital future.” For the first time, the government is extending infrastructure subsidies to telcos to help close connectivity gaps in GIDA communities. Across the industry, the program is expected to support the rollout of one million SIMs, each with 25GB monthly data, and enable the construction of new towers in unserved, while optimizing network performance in underserved locations. “Globe is proud to lead the industry in this milestone program in partnership with the government,” said Globe President and CEO Carl Cruz. “We believe that access to connectivity should not depend on geography. Through our infrastructure, our platform, and strong collaboration with the public sector, we are enabling opportunities where it’s needed most and turning digital inclusion from vision to reality.” With the Bayanihan SIM initiative set to benefit over 333,000 individuals nationwide and supported by partners like DICT and DepEd, Globe continues to push for equitable digital access—ensuring that no Filipino is left behind in today’s connected world. “Globe is here not just to provide signal—but to build opportunity, one community at a time,” Cruz said.            

To support the expansion of Central Luzon’s logistics and manufacturing corridor, a new road interchange will soon rise connecting the municipality of Hermosa in Bataan to the 94-kilometer Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX). A joint collaboration between the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), NLEX Corporation, and the local government of Hermosa, the proposed interchange will form part of the long-term development strategy to enhance regional connectivity along the SCTEX. The interchange will create a critical link between Bataan’s emerging economic zones and industrial estates to other growth corridors in Central Luzon, such as the Clark Freeport Zone, New Clark City, and the Subic Bay Freeport Zone. It will also improve access to the BCDA-administered Bataan Technology Park in Morong, the future home of the Philippine Marine Corps. “More than just an infrastructure, this interchange will unlock a new gateway to economic opportunities for Central Luzon—providing much-needed support for the region’s growing logistics and manufacturing sectors, and generating more jobs for Filipinos. In support of the Luzon Economic Corridor initiative, the enhancement of SCTEX will drive industrial growth and strengthen the region’s role as a key engine of national progress.” said BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Joshua M. Bingcang. The project is aligned with the Marcos administration’s ambitious “Build Better More” infrastructure drive, and forms part of the SCTEX Expansion and Enhancement Plan jointly implemented by the DPWH, BCDA, NLEX Corporation, and concerned LGUs. The project will also contribute to the government’s efforts to support connectivity along the Luzon Economic Corridor, which will help position the region as a strategic manufacturing and electronics hub.              

By Ruben A. Veloria   OLONGAPO CITY — Nahaharap ngayon sa patong-patong na kasong estafa ang negosyanteng si Ramon Fernandez ng lungsod na ito makaraang mabigong maibalik sa mga investor ang multi-milyon pisong sosyong kapital. Si Fernandez ay walang kaugnayan sa dating professional PBA player at Sports Commissioner Ramon Fernandez nagkataon lang na ka-pangalan niya ang suspek. Sa sinumpaang complaint affidavit ni Atty. Theresa Tenazas, ipinakilala umano siya ng isang kaibigan kay Fernandez noong Oktubre 2021 na humimok sa kanya na maging kasosyo sa pagsusuplay ng ng bigas, pagkaing delata, at iba pang pangangailangan na ipinamamahagi ng mga munisipyo sa Zambales at Bataan bilang ayuda. Dahil sa kumbinsidong presentasyon ay nag-abot si Tenazas ng ₱500,000.00 kay Fernandez bilang sosyo, at nadagdagan pa makaraang tiyakin ni Fernandez na maibabalik ang pera dahil may mga “Notice of Award,” “Notice to Proceed” at “Purchase Order” na si Fernandez. Umabot ng kabuoang ₱5.2 milyon ang perang naibigay ni Tenazas hanggang noong Enero 2023. Nangako umano si Fernandez na mag-i-issue ito ng postdated checks sa biktima bilang patunay na ibabalik ang pera sa loob ng tatlong buwan. Ngunit umabot na ng isang taon, wala pa rin naibalik na pera sa biktima. Noong Abril 2023, kinausap ng biktima ang suspek para maisaoli nang maayos ang perang ginamit na kapital, ngunit isang milyong piso lamang ang ibinalik ni Fernandez. Bunsod nito, dumulog si Tenazas, kasama ang iba pang biktima, sa barangay upang resolbahin ang problema, kung saan ay nangako si Fernandez na magbabayad hanggang April 2025. Ngunit pagdating ng itinakdang araw, muling nabigong isauli ng suspek ang pera at muli na namang gumawa ng pangako. Dahil dito, nagsumite na ng affidavit sa korte si Tenazas para makasuhan na si Fernandez ng “syndicated estafa and/or multiple counts of estafa under Article 315 of the Revised Penal Code,” mga kasong “serious and non-bailable offenses under Philippine Law.” Umaabot sa ₱60 milyon ang nakuha ni Fernandez mula sa mga nabiktima nito, maliban pa sa mga lupain sa ibang probinsiya. Nauna nang nakipagpulong ang grupo kay Fernandez sa barangay sa bayan ng Subic upang puwersahin itong isauli ang pera at titulo ng lupa, ngunit hanggang sa kasalukyan wala pang tugon si Fernandez at hindi na nila ito makita.  

By Ruben A. Veloria   SUBIC BAY FREEPORT- The Bureau of Customs (BOC)- Port of Subic reaffirming its commitment to public service and national security extended its support to PNP-SAF 2nd Special Action Battalion through corporate social responsibility (CSR) project. In a simple ceremony held at the BOC- Port of Subic head office at Building 307 here, officers and personnel of the BOC led by District Collector Noel C. Estanislao, handed-over to P/Major Roy Banganan, Asst. Battalion Commander, 2SAB, a token of logistical assistance. Embracing the “Stronger Together: Supporting Our Partners, Serving the Public”, Collector Estanislao said the token is a show of appreciation to security forces in the region, in recognition of their dedication to national safety and peacekeeping. It also serves as the Port’s continued support to its law enforcement and military partners, he added. This initiative forms part of the Port’s broader CSR program, aimed at reinforcing partnerships with stakeholders and aligning with the national government’s “Bagong Pilipinas” campaign for inclusive and sustainable progress. “We believe that a secured nation is a shared responsibility,” Estanislao said. And added, “By standing with our partners in uniform, we contribute not only to their mission, but also to the greater cause of serving the Filipino people.”