CLARK FREEPORT ZONE, Philippines —Visitors to the Freeport now have a new destination to enjoy, as the Clark International Airport Corp.(CIAC) officially opened the Clark Picnic Grounds, on Saturday, April 18. CIAC President and CEO Jojit Alcazar said Phase 1 of the project covers an initial five hectares of the total nine-hectare property. “The project is part of our Urban Renewal and Heritage Conservation Program, which is an integral component of CIAC’s seven flagship initiatives,” he said. Located along Gil Puyat Avenue, the newly refurbished and reimagined Clark Picnic Grounds is a vibrant and inclusive public space. Designed as a modern park, it features jogging and walking paths, recreational and wellness facilities, an amphitheater, a playground, and a picnic grove. Opening day activities include a flea market envisioned as a lively weekend bazaar with a mix of food and non-food merchants, as well as food trucks, offering visitors a diverse selection of products. The expansive grounds are lined with century-old acacia trees that form a natural canopy, making the area ideal for outdoor gatherings, leisure, and recreation. “Through this project, we have integrated modern urban planning principles to promote sustainability, optimize land use, and enhance the overall quality of life in the community,” Alcazar added. Alcazar noted that the Clark Picnic Grounds complements other outdoor destinations in Clark, such as the Clark Parade Grounds, Bicentennial Park, and Air Force City Park. As the premier aviation and land development arm of the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), CIAC remains committed to transforming the Clark Civil Aviation Complex into Clark Aviation Capital, a dynamic business center envisioned as the country’s leading global aviation and logistics hub.        

Subic Bay Freeport, Philippines – The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) has temporarily taken measures to provide port clients with the much-needed financial support, amid the ongoing rise in fuel costs in the global market. SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño explained that this is in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s Executive Order No. 110, which immediately placed the entire country in a state of national energy emergency due to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Aliño added that such temporary measures aim to provide aid to industries affected by the Middle East crisis by ensuring that cost-stabilizing strategies for the transport and food sectors are implemented without delay. “These initiatives, including reduced fees and extended free storage, provide a fiscal cushion to reinforce investor confidence and prevent supply chain bottlenecks,” said Aliño. He also cited that key industry participants namely, importers, suppliers, consignees, vessel owners, and consumers, will experience the impact of these measures through their respective counterparts – terminal operators, cargo handlers, brokers, consolidators, processors, ship agents, and shipping lines, resulting in a cascading effect throughout the supply chain. As part of this initiative, the SBMA will implement a five percent tariff reduction on all commercial vessels, including harbor fees, berthing fees/ anchorage fees, and harbor cleaning fees, as well as a five percent tariff reduction on cargo charges including wharfage fees, and storage fees.   “We will also implement a five percent tariff reduction on SBMA shares such as pilotage fee, hauling services, tugboat services, heavy equipment rental, line handling services, chandling services, water tendering, cargo handling for containerized cargo, and bunkering services,” he added. Additionally, the SBMA is also offering free storage for non-containerized cargo, and free storage period for an additional 2-day extension. To further aid port clients, the SBMA will temporarily suspend the collection of shares from terminal operators/cargo handlers for liquid bulk cargo handling and related activities; the implementation of the one percent admission fee for liquid bulk; and the implementation of the ten percent increase on cargo handling and miscellaneous charges of non-containerized/ general cargoes. Chairman Aliño assured port stakeholders that these measures shall take effect immediately upon its approval and ratification by the SBMA Board of Directors, adding that these will remain in force until geopolitical tensions subside, at which point they shall be lifted via a formal issuance following Board approval. SBMA Senior Deputy Administrator for Port Operations Ronnie Yambao said that the 2026 revenue projections will generate ₱76 million in fiscal relief over a one-year period. Yambao added that the direct tariff reductions will specifically account for approximately ₱49 million (a computation arriving at this figure is attached to this Memorandum, for your reference), while the suspension of new policies is expected to save stakeholders and domestic consumers an additional ₱25 million annually. Furthermore, the extension of free storage periods will contribute approximately ₱2 million in operational savings for port stakeholders for a year.    

NEW CLARK CITY, Philippines — In a landmark inter-agency collaboration, the Civil Service Commission (CSC) and the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) signed a Memorandum of Agreement with Deed of Usufruct for the establishment of the CSC national training and development center in New Clark City, Tarlac. The signing ceremony, held on 13 April 2026 at the CSC Central Office, was led by Chairperson Atty. Marilyn B. Yap and BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Joshua M. Bingcang. Joining them were Commissioner Atty. Luis Meinrado C. Pañgulayan and BCDA Legal Services Group Senior Vice President Diana Joyce N. Basco-Galera. Under the agreement, BCDA grants the CSC the use of a one-hectare parcel of land in New Clark City for a period of 50 years, with possible extension upon mutual agreement, for the development of a dedicated complex that will serve as a national venue for training, learning, and professional development programs for government officials and employees. The project supports the agenda of Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to build a more capable and responsive government. By strengthening the skills and leadership of civil servants, the training hub helps ensure that policies are implemented faster, services are delivered more efficiently, and government programs create real impact in the lives of Filipinos. Chairperson Yap expressed appreciation to BCDA for sharing the Commission’s vision of a civil service that meaningfully responds to the evolving expectations of citizens. “This will not be an ordinary leadership and management development center. It will be grounded in the unique demands of public sector leadership—one that calls for a distinct mindset, skills, and competencies. More importantly, it will be anchored on Filipino values and practices, shaped by our cultural realities and traditions of collaboration, to cultivate public servants who can engage citizens meaningfully and strengthen our collective capacity for inclusive national development,” she said. She added that the initiative goes beyond infrastructure, emphasizing the broader transformation it seeks to achieve within the public sector. “May this be the beginning of a long and productive partnership between the CSC and the BCDA. We are hoping to build more than a facility, but a center for cultural reset in public service—a change in mindset focused on strengthening the values propelling the most critical asset of the government: its human infrastructure,” Chairperson Yap said. For his part, BCDA President and CEO Bingcang emphasized that the project contributes to the continued development of New Clark City as a center for public institutions and innovation. “This partnership is about building the people behind the government. When we strengthen the capability of our civil servants, we improve how services are delivered to every Filipino. In New Clark City, we are creating a national hub that helps make that happen,” he said. As part of the agreement, the CSC will prepare and submit a Development Plan within six months upon receipt of the relevant planning documents from BCDA, and develop and construct the facility in accordance with the New Clark City Comprehensive Master Development Plan, Design Standards, and Guidelines. Meanwhile, BCDA shall assist in the conceptualization and preparation of the development plans, layout of the complex, and formulation of the architectural and structural designs, as well as extend assistance in the operation and maintenance of the training complex. The planned CSC Training and Development Center will feature modern and sustainable facilities designed to support learning and collaboration across the public sector, including a plenary hall with a seating capacity of approximately 300 to 500 participants, breakout rooms and training classrooms, a data processing center, and conference and board rooms. It will also be equipped with boarding and lodging facilities for trainees; an executive lounge; a mess hall or dining facility; wellness and gym amenities; and renewable and sustainable design features, including solar power systems. Once completed, the CSC national training and development center is envisioned to become a premier venue for capacity-building programs that will support the continued modernization and professionalization of the Philippine bureaucracy.

By Ruben A.Veloria   IBA, ZAMBALES, Philippines – The sweetest festival in the country, locally known as Dinamulag Festival, kicked off on Friday (April 10) as thousands of runners of all ages joined the color fun run, the first activity of the three-day celebration. Dinamulag or Mango Festival is celebrated in Zambales during the month of April or May, when mangoes, especially the “Kinalabaw” or dinamulag, known world-wide for its exceptional sweetness, are being harvested. To formally start the festival, Gov. Ebdane, assisted by Vice Gov. Jacky Khonghun and Board Member Runsdedt Ebdane, led the countdown for the 10K, 5K and 3 kilometer run at exactly 6:00AM. At the end of the race, finishers picked–up their luck from a raffle draw for a chance to win home appliances. Meanwhile, later that morning, Gov. Ebdane graced the Governor’s Cup Shootfest at Camp Conrado Yap where he also opened the Zambales Provincial Police Office Firing Range to give the police force a refresherand practice area of their marksmanship. “This is an opportunity to see people, the protector of peace, to come together as, and play together as brothers,” he said in message. He also urged the competitors to become good examples of responsible gun owners, and to undergo Basic Pistol Course to get informed about the new guidelines, new laws, and trends related to gun owning. Competitors to Shootfest were from the Philippine National Police (PNP), Philippine Army (PA), Phil. Navy, PDEA, BJMP from various stations and private groups in Metro Manila and Central Luzon. In line with the Shootfest, private individuals and companies took advantage of the three-day PNP evaluation and approval of application for License to Own and Posses Firearms (LTOPF), and Firearms display at Legislative Building in Iba here. Other activities lined-up for the day: Mango Cooking Festival, Thanksgiving Mass (San Agustine Church), and Drum and Lyre Competition (Botolan Peoples Plaza). Saturday, the day reserved for adrenaline and gun enthusiasts with the Mountain Bike Challenge to be held at Sports Complex), Airsoft Competition at Barangay Dirita, 2nd Day of Governor’s Cup Shootfest at Camp Conrado Yap, and Tuklas Talino: Final Night. The Festival will conclude on Sunday with more exciting games and challenges.

Subic Bay Freeport, Philippines – The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) generated ₱1.77 billion in revenue from port operations in 2025, reflecting steady growth driven by the port’s continued strength and resilience as a logistics and trade hub in the Southeast Asian region. SBMA Chairman and Administrator Engr. Eduardo Jose L. Aliño explained that the ₱1.77-billion revenue in 2025 is 4.2 percent, or ₱71.7 million, higher than the 2024 record ₱1.7 billion. Aliño added that the Seaport Department generated ₱1.47 billion of the total, followed by the Airport Department with ₱182 million, and the Trade Facilitation and Compliance Department (TFCD) with P125 million. “Our 2025 port revenue performance demonstrates how Subic Bay continues to thrive despite global economic uncertainties. This achievement highlights our modern infrastructure, efficient processes, and strong public-private partnerships,” Aliño said. Meanwhile, the SBMA port revenues have already surged by 13 percent at ₱113.7 million in January of 2026 on a year-on-year comparison with ₱100.4 million in January 2025. The ₱113.7 million earned in January, ₱97.7 million came from the Seaport Department, ₱5 million from the Airport Department, and ₱11 million from TFCD. Aliño said that some of the key factors that fueled the growth include a 52 percent increase in SBMA share collections primarily due to a surge in non-containerized cargo handling. He said that this includes rice (up 484 percent), corn (230 percent), wheat (48 percent), and soya (3 percent). Another factor, he added, is the 59 percent increase in vessel charges and 38 percent growth in cargo charges. Non-containerized cargo volumes grew by 47 percent, with imported petroleum products up by 46 percent. This was accompanied by a 17 percent increase in foreign ship calls, totaling 149 additional vessel arrivals. He assured that the SBMA remains committed to further investments in port modernization, digitalization, and sustainability initiatives. “Our vision is to sustain this momentum and position Subic Bay as a leading port in Southeast Asia, enhancing national economic development and global trade connectivity,” Aliño added.  

  Amid growing concerns over watershed protection and water supply in Central Luzon, the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) joined over 140 volunteers  in implementing the Abacan River Sustainable Clean-Up Program on March 21, as part of activities leading up to World Water Day and in observance of National Water Month The program, led by Balibago Waterworks System, Inc. and the Metro Angeles Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (MACCII), is conducted every third Saturday of the month. BCDA President and CEO Joshua M. Bingcang underscored the agency’s approach of aligning infrastructure development with environmental stewardship. “At BCDA, we see sustainability as a core responsibility. As we build infrastructure that drives economic growth, we are equally focused on protecting natural systems that sustain our communities. Development must not come at the expense of our water sources,” Engr. Bingcang said. Volunteers waded into the Abacan River in Brgy. Pampang, Angeles City and cleared 158 sacks of waste from a waterway that supports nearby communities and wildlife. According to Mini Arceo, CSR Manager of Balibago Waterworks System, Inc, water supply has been a challenge in areas of Metro Manila and Central Luzon. She explained: “Ang Abacan River Sustainable Clean-up ay inilunsad natin upang protektahan ang sources ng tubig natin. Dito sa Angeles City, Mabalacat, and City of San Fernando, kasama ito sa mga high risk of losing water…  Kailangan po talaga palaguin, pagandahin, paunlarin, ingatan ang ating mga water sources kagaya po ng Abacan River.” (“We launched the Abacan River Sustainable Clean-up to protect our water sources.  Angeles City, Mabalacat City and the City of San Fernando are among areas with high risk of losing water.  There is a need to grow, improve, develop and preserve our water sources such as the Abacan River.”) The recent return of migratory birds in some parts of the river shows how the continuous clean-up and rehabilitation are helping the ecosystem recover. This activity marks a step forward in how BCDA is advancing sustainability in Central Luzon and working with communities and partners to tackle environmental issues where it operates. Beyond clean-up drives, BCDA is also advancing a broader watershed restoration strategy in Central Luzon in support of the Department of Transportation (DOTr). In connection with the implementation of the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) Calamba Extension Project, the agencies are supporting the planting of approximately 700,000 indigenous tree seedlings across the Sapangbato Watershed in Angeles City and the Sacobia Watershed in Mabalacat City. The initiative is being implemented by the DOTr, in coordination with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the Abacan River and Angeles Watershed Advocacy Council, Inc. (ARAW-ACI) and BCDA. The large-scale reforestation effort aims to restore forest cover, protect water sources, and mitigate the environmental impact of major infrastructure developments. Both projects show how BCDA is carrying out its sustainability work through partnerships with local groups, government agencies, and communities, in line with SDG 17. For BCDA, protecting rivers and greening projects in partnership with communities are critical initiatives on the ground.  These efforts support the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to pursue development that is climate-resilient, sustainable, and environmentally responsible.              

Subic Bay Freeport, Philippines  – Best Western Plus Hotel Subic has confirmed plans to expand its operations after signing the contract that will allow the construction of a new building beside the current hotel. The expansion project was signed between the proponent, Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) and developer Simon & Stanley International Trading and Development Co. Inc. SBMA Chairman and Administrator Eduardo Jose L. Aliño and Best Western Plus Hotel Subic Chairman and CEO Jaime “Jack” Uy led the contract signing for the expansion project at the Corporate Boardroom of the Administration Building on March 31, 2026. Architect Jayson Steffen Uy, Vice-president for Facility and Construction of Savers Group Holdings Inc. (SGHI), shared that the new  building will consist of 120 additional hotel rooms, several commercial spaces, a three-floor parking area, restaurants, and parks. SGHI is the exclusive developer for Best Western in the Philippines as the conglomerate that owns and manages Best Western Plus Hotel Subic. Uy added that the new building will be an extension of Best Western with infused committed investment worth P587,967,200.00. “With the current need for more spaces, function halls, and rooms, we decided to expand our operations in Subic,” Uy added. The official stated that the design phase should be finished either this year or next year while the construction should be able to commence as early as the first quarter of 2027. “As for employees, the company intends to source its manpower requirements locally,” he further said. Meanwhile, SBMA Director Ted Del Rosario, Senior Deputy Administrator (SDA) Renato Lee III, SDA Ramon O. Agregado, and other agency officials were also present during the said contract signing ceremony. Chairman Aliño welcomed the expansion project of Best Western Plus Hotel Subic, citing the growing need of hotels and establishments in Subic Bay Freeport. He added that aside from the company’s committed investment, the agency also welcomes the job opportunities from the expansion project. Best Western Plus Hotel Subic is the first internationally branded hotel in the Subic Bay Freeport Zone. It is a four-star property located on Dewey Avenue, providing easy access to major commercial hubs like Harbor Point Mall and SM City Olongapo.              

NEW CLARK CITY, Philippines — The Philippine Pharma Procurement, Inc. (PPPI) and the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) officially entered into a strategic partnership on March 25, Wednesday, marking a significant leap toward transforming the Philippines into a regional hub for pharmaceutical manufacturing and life sciences. The two agencies signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to undertake a comprehensive collaborative study for the development of specialized pharmaceutical economic zones. The initiative will explore strategic business opportunities within the Clark Civil Aviation Complex (CCAC) in Pampanga and New Clark City in Tarlac. The signing sets in motion efforts to stimulate industrial development in these areas, particularly in pharmaceutical manufacturing, medical equipment production, cold chain logistics, and research and development. This is in sync with the Marcos administration’s goal of accelerating ecozone development to create jobs, attract investments, expand growth in regions outside Metro Manila, and support inclusive economic progress. Building a “factory-to-port” ecosystem The partnership seeks to address the Philippines’ long-standing reliance on imported medicines by creating a dedicated ecosystem for pharmaceutical manufacturing, research, and distribution. By integrating the world-class logistical advantages of the Clark airport complex with the industrial capacity of New Clark City, the BCDA and PPPI aim to create a seamless “factory-to-port” environment. This collaboration serves as a key expansion of PPPI’s vision for the national pharmaceutical industry. It directly complements PPPI’s ongoing partnership with the Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) for the development of the Pharmaceutical Logistics Hub at CIAC. “This signing bridges the gap between logistics and manufacturing,” said PPPI President and CEO Maria Blanca Kim B. Lokin. “By studying the feasibility of specialized pharma-ecozones, we are not just building warehouses; we are creating a high-tech environment where research, production, and global distribution can thrive in one place.” Enhancing healthcare supply chains The study will focus on several high-impact areas designed to attract both global and local investment. It will begin with site identification, locating optimal areas within New Clark City and CCAC for state-of-the-art manufacturing plants and R&D laboratories. It will also emphasize logistical integration, leveraging Clark International Airport to ensure rapid, temperature-controlled transit of pharmaceutical products. Finally, the study will address incentive frameworks, creating a competitive environment to attract global pharmaceutical giants while supporting local drug manufacturers. “Developing pharmaceutical ecozones is a key priority for BCDA in Clark. By positioning Clark as an integral part of the country’s healthcare ecosystem, we are improving access to medicines, fostering innovation, and enhancing the nation’s capacity to meet healthcare needs. At the same time, this initiative supports high-value job creation, attracts investment, and stimulates inclusive and sustainable growth for the Philippines,” said BCDA President and CEO Joshua M. Bingcang. Economic and social impact Beyond healthcare, the development of these specialized zones is expected to be a major economic driver for Central Luzon. The project is projected to generate thousands of high-value jobs for Filipino scientists, pharmacists, and engineers, further strengthening the country’s specialized workforce.    

TARLAC, Philippines — Tarlac, the heart of Central Luzon, is rapidly growing with expanding schools, thriving businesses, and increasing tourism – driving a greater need for reliable mobile connectivity in the province. Residents, enterprises, and visitors are relying more on mobile services for work, learning, and entertainment, making fast and stable internet essential for everyday life. The province is seeing significant infrastructure and development projects that are shaping its economic landscape. Major initiatives include the Capas-Botolan Road, a 68-kilometer corridor expected to cut travel time between Tarlac and Zambales from three hours to just over an hour by 2025. In Tarlac City, large-scale industrial estates and mixed-use townships are under development, alongside new manufacturing facilities and modern residential-commercial communities. Ongoing investments in Tarlac State University further enhance educational infrastructure, with laboratory refurbishments and building expansions supporting the next generation of talent. To address this demand, Globe is accelerating network upgrades across the province in 2025 and 2026. Additional LTE and 5G sites are being deployed to deliver faster speed and more consistent mobile experiences throughout Tarlac. The new build and expansion improved coverage and capacity in key municipalities including Tarlac City, Capas, Concepcion, Gerona, Victoria, Paniqui, Mayantoc, San Jose, Moncada, Santa Ignacia, La Paz, Camiling, Bamban, San Clemente, Pura, San Manuel, Ramos, and Anao. Residents can now enjoy smoother browsing, clearer calls, and quicker uploads and downloads, enabling seamless connectivity for work, school, and leisure activities. Joel Agustin, Head of Service Planning and Engineering at Globe, highlighted the importance of the upgrades. He said that Tarlac blends cultural heritage with modern business and lifestyle opportunities, and Globe is committed to providing seamless connectivity for everyone, whether at work, in school, or exploring the province’s tourism destinations. The new network strengthens coverage and delivers fast, reliable mobile experiences for both residents and visitors. The enhanced network also allows customers to take full advantage of Globe’s mobile offers. Globe users can enjoy GO+99 and UNLI 5G 50, while TM subscribers can access TM EasySURF50 5G for affordable, dependable connectivity. These offers support streaming, online learning, digital entrepreneurship, and daily communication, making mobile services more accessible and convenient. Local businesses and institutions also benefit from the network expansion. Companies gain operational efficiency, schools gain better support for digital learning, and tourists experience smoother online access for navigation, bookings, and content sharing. Globe’s continued investments are recognized by independent industry analysis. The company maintains its title as the Most Consistent Network in the Philippines according to Ookla, reflecting the reliability subscribers experience nationwide. As Tarlac develops into a hub for commerce and tourism, Globe’s network upgrades ensure communities remain digitally empowered. By combining robust infrastructure with accessible mobile services, Globe supports the province’s progress and helps residents stay connected in an increasingly digital world.