Showcasing its commitment to transforming the Philippines into a hub for world-class sports facilities, the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) has partnered with the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) to optimize the use of BCDA properties for national sports development.
On Wednesday, August 13, BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Joshua M. Bingcang and PSC Chairperson John Patrick “Pato” Gregorio signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) that aims to modernize the country’s sports infrastructure by leveraging key BCDA assets.
Under the agreement, BCDA and PSC will form a joint task force to identify and assess BCDA properties that can be developed into premier training and sports facilities. Among the priority locations are New Clark City, which is envisioned to host a national training center and Baguio City, identified for the establishment of an additional high-performance facility.
“This partnership with the Philippine Sports Commission is a force multiplier. By linking BCDA’s land development capabilities with PSC’s national sports mission, together we are laying the groundwork for future champions and promoting a healthier, more active Filipino nation,” BCDA President and CEO Joshua M. Bingcang said.
The initiative will also explore innovative funding models like public-private partnerships, implement advanced design and construction methods, and establish professional management to ensure the creation of world-class, sustainable, and self sufficient sports infrastructure.
Furthermore, this collaborative effort will maximize the utilization of government resources, promote long-term sports development, and foster a new beginning of excellence in Philippine sports.
“The President’s directive is clear: build from the grassroots. We are building regional training centers across the country to speed up the national sports development agenda. Why? These are investments that combine youth empowerment with economic progress. I am happy the BCDA and PSC are equally committed to creating opportunities for regional development through sports,” PSC Chairman Gregorio said.
New Clark City, positioned as the country’s new premier sports destination, boasts top-tier facilities, including World Athletics-certified Athletics Stadium, which has a 20,000-seating capacity with a nine-lane 400-meter track and field, and another four-lane warm-up track; as well as the World Aquatics-approved Aquatics Center, boasting a total seating capacity of 2,000, a 10-lane competition pool, eight-lane training pool and a diving pool. Additionally, the 525-unit Athletes’ Village provides accommodations for participating and training athletes in New Clark City. The rising metropolis also serves as the home for the National Academy of Sports.
BCDA’s new initiative strongly aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), bringing both health and infrastructure benefits to our community. It directly contributes to SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being by creating opportunities for healthy lifestyles at every age. Furthermore, it supports SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure by investing in new, resilient infrastructure and pioneering innovation in sports science and training.
