The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) is stepping up efforts to unlock the economic potential of government-owned land, signing four agreements to introduce tourism, commercial and community facilities in New Clark City and Camp John Hay.
The deals form part of the state-owned agency’s strategy to attract private investment, create business opportunities and expand public services by putting underutilized properties to productive use.
In New Clark City, BCDA granted the Municipality of Bamban usufructuary rights over approximately three hectares for the expansion and operation of Dapdap Memorial Park. The project is intended to address local community needs while giving the land a more defined public purpose.
BCDA also partnered with Grace Farm Nature Resort Corp. to develop leisure and recreational facilities in the emerging development in Tarlac, broadening its potential appeal to visitors and investors.
In Baguio City, the authority signed a lease agreement with Anrey Inc., operator of Sizzling Plate Steakhouse, for a new restaurant branch within the John Hay Special Economic Zone.
A separate agreement with Zoo and Theme Park Services Inc. covers a proposed 5.8-hectare Integrated Educational Family Adventure Park in Camp John Hay’s Historical Core. Plans include a botanical garden, cultural heritage site, and nature and wildlife adventure park, adding another potential draw to the city’s tourism offerings.
The projects span different uses of public land, from community recreation and dining to nature-based tourism and educational attractions. Their eventual economic contribution, however, will depend on implementation, visitor demand and the ability to sustain operations.
For BCDA, the agreements represent an effort to balance the commercial value of its land portfolio with benefits for surrounding communities.
“These investments contribute to the national economy, enhance the value of our properties, and help us deliver better services to our communities,” BCDA president and CEO Joshua Bingcang said.
The latest partnerships underscore the agency’s push to turn idle or underutilized assets into active destinations and business sites, with the potential to generate economic activity while broadening access to recreational and community facilities.
