THE provincial government of Tarlac fully supports Senate Bill No. 2647, which aims to extend the term and expand the capabilities of the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA).

Tarlac Vice Governor Carlito S. David said the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Tarlac passed Resolution No. 289-2024 in July, declaring a strong support for the Senate bill, as it will generate quality jobs and boost economic growth and inclusive development.

The provincial board stated in the resolution that the 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.

It added that the Provincial Government of Tarlac 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 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 provide an estimated 600,000 job opportunities to Filipinos.

David said the whole of Tarlac is 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.” 