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.”      

By Ruben A. Veloria   SUBIC BAY FREEPORT- To promote values formation and spiritual growth in the workplace, the Bureau of Customs– Port of Subic launched recently its first-ever Moral Recovery Presentation. Under the leadership of District Collector Noel C. Estanislao and Deputy Collector for Administration Mr. Isagani D. Galsim, all employees of the Port were enjoined to participate in the activity which aimed to provide all personnel the opportunity to develop their personal values, beliefs, and principles. All these when applied will serve as guide for their appropriate behavior and actions while performing their duties in the workplace, even at home. This initiative supports Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio’s Five-Point Priority Program, particularly in advancing employee welfare and development. The presentation was delivered by Dr. Ronnie Delfin, who inspired and engaged the participants through thought-provoking insights on integrity, accountability, and purpose-driven work. Employees warmly welcomed the activity, reflecting a shared commitment to fostering a positive and values-centered work environment. The Port of Subic intends to continue holding similar sessions in the future as part of its ongoing efforts to support the moral and emotional well-being of its workforce.              

By Ruben A. Veloria   SUBIC BAY FREEPORT- The Philippine Navy (PN), together with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), seized about 1.5 tons of suspected shabu on a fishing boat off the coast of Zambales on early Friday morning. Authorities estimated the seized illegal drugs to a street value of more than ₱10 billion. PN spokesperson Captain John Percie Alcos said elements of the Northern Luzon Naval Command (NLNC), in tandem with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), responded to a received information from a tipster. The information relayed that the identified fishing boat has a high possibility of carrying illegal drugs. At around 1:30 a.m., Friday, elements of NLNC and PDEA boarded and checked the fishing vessel and there found on board 1.5 tons or 1,500 kilos of shabu. It was not immediately clear if a suspect was apprehended as details of the operation have yet to be fully divulged. “This is one of the largest illegal drug apprehensions in the history of the Philippine Navy in support of the National Government’s campaign against prohibited substances,” the official added. The Navy said the seized suspected shabu is now on its way to Naval Operating Base – Subic for documentation and turnover to proper authorities. Since May 29 this year, government authorities had already “fished out” some ₱17,083,034,054 worth of shabu in the various parts in the West Philippine Sea. On May 29, local fishermen in Masinloc, Zambales found 223 packs of shabu worth P1,514,054,000 while floating in the water. On June 5-9, coastal residents in Pangasinan and Ilocos Sur found 1,038 kilos or about P7,058,400,000 worth of shabu washed ashore. On June 12, in the shorelines of Ilocos Norte, P20.4 million worth of shabu were fond while floating in the water by fishermen. This was followed with the recovery of 15 kilos or ₱2.72 million worth of shabu in Cagayan area. According to PDEA, all the recovered illegal drugs is believed to be connected to international drug syndicate identified as “Sam Gor”, which is operating in countries across the Asia-Pacific region, including the Philippines.        

Subic Bay Freeport – Wilcon Depot, renowned leading home improvement and construction supplies retailer, is set to open its ₱700 million branch within this premier Freeport soon. The construction of a new branch inside Subic Bay Freeport was confirmed as the lease agreement was signed between Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño and Wilcon Depot, Inc. Chairman Emeritus William Belo at the SBMA’s administration building early this month. According to the lease agreement, the branch will be located at Sampson Road, Central Business District of SBFZ, with a lot area of 5,308 square meters, including the renovation of a portion of Building 640, and the construction of a showroom. “This is a great addition to the companies located here, with many construction companies, home builders, and other DIY enthusiasts flocking the area to buy building materials, tiles, plumbing, and other DIY items,” Aliño said. Aliño added that the company will be hiring a total of 200 personnel for its operation which will add to the growing number of workers inside the Subic Bay Freeport Zone. (30)        

As part of its ongoing efforts to increase the supply of affordable housing in New Clark City, the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) has tapped real estate developer AMA Land, Inc. to explore and study new affordable housing opportunities within the rising metropolis. On Friday, 13 June 2025, BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Joshua M. Bingcang and AMA Land Chairman Emeritus Dr. Amable R. Aguiluz V signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU), which establishes a collaborative framework for the conduct of feasibility and business case studies on a potential affordable housing project within New Clark City. This partnership aims to bring together the two organizations’ resources and expertise to create sustainable and inclusive housing developments in New Clark City, consistent with their shared goal of building dynamic communities while promoting environmental stewardship and long-term economic growth. “Together, we will explore how to design homes that are not just affordable, but well-connected, climate-resilient, and empowering—homes that allow working families to live near jobs, education, and opportunity,” said Engr. Bingcang. “We thank AMA Land, led by Dr. Aguiluz, for sharing our belief that development must reach all sectors of society. Together, we are planting the seeds for communities that future generations will inherit with pride,” he added. Under the MOU, AMA Land agrees to share its technical expertise and lead the technical assessments, feasibility studies, and business case preparation for the housing project. Upon completion of these studies, AMA Land will provide recommendations on the project, with focus on sustainability, accessibility and inclusivity in the housing design. This is to ensure that the project will include a diverse range of housing options that can accommodate various income levels and family sizes. “This MOU signifies more than just a formal agreement; it represents a shared vision and a concrete step towards addressing critical needs within our nation. The collaboration between BCDA and AMALI is aimed at tackling the pressing issues of housing shortage and climate change. Our goal is to design and develop affordable housing projects and sustainable communities within New Clark City,” said Dr. Aguiluz V, who also serves as the Special Envoy to Japan for Trade and Investments. New Clark City is envisioned to be the country’s first smart, green and resilient metropolis, masterfully designed to embody the principles of sustainability and inclusivity. At its core, this district is being shaped into a people-centered development—envisioned to enhance the quality of life of Filipinos and empower local communities while catalyzing economic growth. The development of affordable housing sites in New Clark City contributes to the Marcos administration’s goal of addressing the housing gap in the country. This is also aligned with the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028, particularly the strategies to establish livable communities. Aside from this collaboration with AMA Land, the BCDA has made broad steps to establish affordable and sustainable housing options in New Clark City. In July 2023, the state-run firm signed a MOU with the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) formalizing the two agencies’ partnership under the Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino Program (4PH). Earlier this year, the BCDA also signed a lease contract with South Korea-based Saekyung Unitless Co. and Philippine-based Sta. Clara International Corp. for the development of a 6.1-hectare affordable housing project in New Clark City, with support from the Korea Overseas Infrastructure and Urban Development Corp. (KIND). The Php4.8 billion housing development will feature 3,320 units, a portion of which will be earmarked as subsidized units under the government’s 4PH Program.