The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), in partnership with its public and private sector partners, is planning to expand the road interchange connecting Luisita Access Road in Tarlac City to the 94-kilometer Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), in an effort to decongest traffic, improve regional mobility, and unlock new investment and employment opportunities in the region. During a joint site inspection on 04 July 2025, BCDA President and CEO Engr. Joshua M. Bingcang, Tarlac Governor Christian Tell A. Yap, Tarlac Vice Governor Lita Aquino and other key stakeholders assessed the proposed construction site for additional entry and exit ramps that will complete the SCTEX Luisita interchange’s connectivity, and provide vital access points  for motorists coming to and from the north. Currently, the interchange only provides passage for motorists driving to and from the south. “The Luisita Interchange Expansion is a vital step toward unlocking Tarlac’s full economic potential. By improving regional mobility and access to key industrial zones and new townships, we are not only easing travel for motorists but also paving the way for greater investments, jobs, and inclusive growth in Central Luzon,” said Engr. Bingcang. The proposed construction of the new Luisita interchange will help ease travel for motorists heading to and from the northern part of Luzon, significantly improving accessibility and connectivity in the region. It will also reduce congestion along the MacArthur Highway and adjacent roads in Tarlac. Expanding the interchange will also provide vital access to industrial hubs and township developments in the province, such as Luisita Industrial Park, Central Techno Park, Cresendo Estates, and TARI Estate. Ultimately, this will boost the competitiveness of Central Luzon as an investment destination, driving more economic activities and unlocking more employment opportunities for local communities. The Luisita Interchange Expansion is a strategic upgrade that strengthens SCTEX’s role as a key corridor in Central Luzon. The project aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s “Build Better More” program and the vision for seamless multimodal transport across Luzon. 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   IBA, Zambales- Zambales Governor Hermogenes Ebdane Jr., on Monday shared the strategic vision of the province to newly elected and reelected officials of the local government, whom he described as leaders and builders of Zambales’ future. In his speech during the Inaugural Session of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, Gov. Ebdane said, “Today, we look forward to the future of Zambales as leaders and builders of its own destiny with a clear vision for the province.” The governor was addressing the members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan headed by Vice-Governor Jacqueline Rose Khonghun as presiding officer, municipal mayors, and other executive officials of the local government units, and senior officers of the province. Gov. Ebdane explained the vision will ignite the resolve, the conviction, and the commitment of the officials in forging a more progressive and a more socially conscious community for Zambaleños. The chief executive further explained the strategic vision, “drawn from three powerful perspectives: hindsight, insight, foresight.” Hindsight, according to Gov. Ebdane, is recognizing the past challenges when the province endured hardships, people suffered series of setbacks and adversities. However, they never faltered, never floundered, never broken. “We became resilient because of conviction. Indeed, it was those tough times that tested our capacity to survive and excel,” Gov. Ebdane said. Insight, Gov. Ebdane continued, is facing the present. “We stopped waiting for change to happen. We became the change we have been wanting to see in our province, we set in motion these strategic directions.” Among motions the governor mentioned were: revitalized revenue generation and mechanisms for economic recovery; established engines of sustainable economic growth; elevated social services and expanded healthcare systems; prioritized infrastructure development and modernization; and cultivated community engagement and broadened public participation. Meanwhile, the Foresight was defined as the future-proof Zambales, where true leadership demands foresight, not reaction, ensuring that the province does not lag behind, but lead ahead. Thus, the governor implored the support of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan on five transformative pillars, each demanding legislative alignment, innovative policy-making, and collaborative governance, to drive local economic development. These pillars include health equity policies and timely appropriations for healthcare delivery services; revenue enhancing measures while protecting and encouraging investment; asset utilization frameworks that encourage local enterprise and industrial growth; inclusive education and livelihood opportunities to protect marginalized sector, and infrastructure modernization and capacity building for civil servants. “Today, the road ahead is not without its challenges, but it is rich in promise. Through unity, we shall deliver on those promises,” said Gov. Ebdane.          

By Ruben A. Veloria   SUBIC BAY FREEPORT- The Bureau of Customs– Port of Subic, in joint operation with Department of Agriculture (DA), and Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), on Tuesday (July 8) conducted inspection of ten 40-footer containers flagged under Alert Orders issued by the DA. The inspection was led by Port of Subic District Collector Noel C. Estanislao, in partnership with DA Sec. Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., and SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño, in line with the decisive move of the government against agricultural smuggling. The shipments which were declared as “chicken lollipops” or “chicken poppers” were reported to be part of the 31 shipments currently held under customs custody, pending physical examination and inventory due to suspected misdeclaration. During actual inspection, it was confirmed that the containers were packed with of agricultural commodities from China, including carrots, white onions, and frozen mackerel, estimated to be worth more than ₱100 million. However, officials believe that the value may reach ₱300 million when sold in the market. The deliberate misdeclaration is viewed as a blatant attempt to evade regulatory procedures and poses serious threats to public health, food safety, and the nation’s agricultural sector. The BoC– Port of Subic will issue Warrants of Seizure and Detention (WSD) against the shipments for possible violations of the various laws on importation of agricultural products, misdeclaration and tariff laws. Collector Estanislao reaffirmed the Port’s commitment to strict enforcement of customs laws saying, “We will not tolerate any form of smuggling that undermines our agricultural sector and puts consumers at risk. The Port of Subic remains resolute in upholding the law and protecting our borders.” For his part, Agriculture Sec. Laurel emphasized the expanded accountability under the newly enacted law, stating, “Under the new Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Law, we can now pursue not just consignees, but also customs brokers, transporters, sellers, and buyers. Smuggling is no longer a victimless crime—we are going after the entire supply chain.” Meanwhile, this high-level inspection underscores the strong and unified collaboration between BOC, DA, and SBMA in support of the President’s directive to curb smuggling and safeguard national food security. Commissioner of Customs Ariel F. Nepomuceno, through Collector Estanislao, also expressed full support for intensified border protection and legal action against agricultural smuggling. Further examinations of the remaining containers are underway. The Bureau of Customs assures the public that all violators will be dealt with accordingly, and that enforcement will continue without fear or favor.    

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.