Tarlac SP backs bill extending life and expanding BCDA’s powers

BAGUIO CITY (September 19, 2024) -- Tarlac Vice Governor Carlito S. David said

The Tarlac provincial government is backing fully supports Senate Bill No. 2647, seeking to extend the term and expand the capabilities of the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA).

Such will generate quality jobs and boost economic growth and inclusive development, Vice Gov. David said also citing the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Tarlac Resolution No. 289-2024 earlier passed in July this year declaring a strong support for BCDA’s term and capabilities expansion.

“Whereas, the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) was created to be a prime mover of national development by transforming former military bases and properties into premier centers of economic growth, thereby creating a sustainable urban communities aimed to uplift the lives of Filipinos,” the Tarlac provincial board said in its resolution. 

The Tarlac SP also stressed that the Provincial Government and the BCDA have been active partners in the promotion of long-term infrastructure development projects within New Clark City. New Clark City is a 9,450-hectare mixed-use property being developed by BCDA located in the municipalities of Capas and Bamban in Tarlac.

Planned to become the country’s first green, smart, and sustainable city, New Clark City will be a home to about one million residents and will provide an estimated 600,000 job opportunities to Filipinos. 

David said the whole of Tarlac is truly thankful to BCDA for developing New Clark City, which has already generated economic activities that helped transform the lives of their constituents. 

Senate Bill No. 2647 seeks to amend Republic Act 7227 to extend BCDA's corporate term for efficient continuity of its functions; mobilize residential and affordable housing developments; support pension funds of the Armed Forces of the Philippines; and further promote local and foreign investor confidence;

The provincial board also asserted that “the Provincial Government of Tarlac is one with the thrust of the national government's socioeconomic agenda towards the establishment of dynamic business centers and sustainable communities, thereby revitalizing industries, generating quality jobs and boosting economic growth and inclusive development.