BCDA External Newsletter
COLLECTIVE
is a quarterly publication of the
Bases Conversion and Development Authority.
Table of Contents
3 Building the City of the Future
8 Clark Airport: A showcase of modern Filipino sensibility
11 Build Build Build by the Numbers
12 News
15 Building Smart Cities
16 Fast Talk with the New Directors
18 No regrets for Marawi soldier
20 Unwind in Thunderbird Resorts
21 The Silent Workers of La Forge
24 Snapshots of BCDA Events
25 Freeports and Ecozones
31 A Diner's Digest of Matam-ih restaurant
32 Icon: Alab ng Puso
ON THE COVER
A rendering of New Clark City
shows plenty of green space amid
the hustle and bustle of the
new metropolis.
Gregorio D. Garcia III
Chairman
Vivencio B. Dizon
President and CEO
Editor-in-Chief: Leilani Barlongay-Macasaet
Executive Editor: Maricar Gay Savella-Villamil
Managing Editor: Kathrina Charmaine Alvarez
Art Director: Ana Trina Sulit
Associate Editor: Patricia Ruth Cailao
Writers: Michelle San Juan-De Vera, Lanquin Seyer Gacusan
Photographers: Samuel Luke Galivo, Garry Cativo,
Lanquin Seyer Gacusan
Contributors:
Clark Development Corporation
Clark International Airport Corporation
John Hay Management Corporation
Poro Point Management Corporation
Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority
Renders by: Budji + Royal Architecture + Design
Megawide
Circulation: Mareynel Toquero
TheBCDAGroup
Editorial Address:
BCDA Corporate Center
2/F, Bonifacio Technology Center,
31st Street cor. 2nd Ave.
Bonifacio Global City,
Taguig City, Philippines
Contact No.
(632) 575-1700
Fax
(632) 816-0996
E-mail
bcda@bcda.gov.ph
Website
http://www.bcda.gov.ph
B U I L D I N G
T H E C I T Y
OF THE
FUTURE
T O T A K E S O M E
P R E S S U R E O F F
M E T R O M A N I L A ,
A W E L L - P L A N N E D
M E T R O P O L I S R I S E S
J U S T A B O U T
1 0 0 K I L O M E T E R S
N O R T H O F T H E
B U S Y M E G A C I T Y .
THIS IS
NEW CLARK CITY.
By
KATHRINA CHARMAINE ALVAREZ
Every day, we hear horror stories of commuters
taking public transportation in crowded Metro
Manila. Traffic has become so horrendous in
Manila’s major roads that the term “Carmageddon”
has been coined to describe the bumperto-bumper
congestion. The situation also results
in P3.5 billion in lost opportunities a day,
according to the Japan International Cooperation
Agency or JICA. To take some of the pressure
off, a well-planned metropolis rises just
about 100 kilometers north of the busy megacity.
This is New Clark City.
New Clark City, located within the Clark Special
Economic Zone, is envisioned to be a “city of the
future,” a model for future developments in the
country. In partnership with industry-leading
firms from Japan and Singapore, New Clark
City was designed to be the first smart, green,
resilient, and sustainable city in the Philippines.
For Surbana Jurong, one of the partners of the
Bases Conversion and Development Authority
(BCDA), the logical way to develop is “outward”
the neighboring provinces of Metro Manila.
“The way to develop is outward so that you also
have a twin city, or you have a second wing to
a city...I think New Clark City will play that role
vis-a-vis Manila. And I think that this is the right
strategy, and an exciting vision if you want to
grow Manila in exciting ways,” Teo Eng Cheong,
Surbana Jurong’s chief executive officer (International),
says.
New Clark City is the
right strategy, and an
exciting vision if you
want to grow Manila in
exciting ways.
T E O E N G C H E O N G
CEO, Surbana Jurong
4 COLLECTIVE
Connectivity is in Clark,
and connectivity is going to be
enhanced even further in the
very near future.
V I N C E D I Z O N
BCDA President and CEO
Construction of the first phase has started with
government buildings, a river walkway, and a
world-class sports complex to be used for the
country’s hosting of the Southeast Asian Games
in November 2019. Access roads leading up to
New Clark City from the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway
(SCTEx), and the Clark International
Airport are set to be finished by October 2019,
and January 2020. But the “game-changer”
for BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer
Vivencio Dizon is the Manila-Clark railway
project, which will cut the Manila to Clark travel
time from two hours to just 55 minutes. “Connectivity
is in Clark and connectivity is going
to be enhanced even further in the very near
future,” says Dizon. Not to mention that a new
terminal building at the Clark International Airport
will already be operational in two years,
allowing Clark to accommodate an additional
eight million passengers per annum.
For its transportation infrastructure alone, New
Clark City is a city that functions better.
DISASTER-RESILIENT
With a minimum elevation of 54 meters above
sea level, the 9,450-hectare new metropolis will
likely not experience any flooding, also a typical
problem in most parts of Metro Manila whenever
a typhoon strikes. The master plan for New
Clark City stays true to the vision of creating a
green city but also respects the natural identity
of the area.
Sylvester Wong, vice president for strategies
and development of master planning firm AE-
COLLECTIVE 5
COM, points out a unique factor of New Clark
City -- “the broad expanse of natural community.”
“We looked at how to create resilience in the
city so that it can withstand shocks and stresses;
provide a new walkable, connected place
so that we bring back time to the people of the
Philippines; and
so that it’s a green
place–a place of
breathability,” says
Wong.
S Y L V E S T E R W O N G
Strategically located
in Central
and Development, AECOM
Vice President for Strategies
Luzon, New Clark
City will also house
satellite government offices, and an Integrated
Operations Center and Disaster Risk Recovery
Center to ensure continuous operations and
services in case of natural disasters and calamities.
For MTD Philippines President Engr. Patrick
Nicholas David, building the Philippines’ own
Putrajaya is also about improving efficiency.
“It’s about bringing the government offices together,
bringing the agencies that work together
closer to make sure that there is efficiency in
doing business, efficiency in delivering government
service. Our vision is not for us to travel
around Metro Manila’s traffic just to get our
business done. It’s to make sure that it is efficient,
conducive,
and productive,”
says David. MTD
It’s a green place -
a place of breathability.
Philippines’ parent
company,
MTD Capital Berhad,
was behind
the proposal for
the development
of the National
Government Administrative Center (NGAC).
Apart from government offices, BCDA is also
keen on attracting foreign investors to set up
shop in the new metropolis. After all, New Clark
City, one of the high-impact projects pursued by
the Duterte administration, is also envisioned to
be not just a viable alternative to the capital, but
also the next investment hub in Asia.
6 COLLECTIVE
New Clark City may be an
ambitious project, but it’s
also been long overdue.
PH identity
Architect Royal Pineda, half of the design duo
behind New Clark City, says the project is also
an exhibit of the Philippines’ identity.
“The soul of the Philippines should really be
presented and this is where we believe that
modern Filipino architecture, modern Filipino
sensibility should always be a part of; especially
that this is the face not just of Clark, but the face
of the country. This is the modern face of the
country,” says Pineda.
“We always look for the authenticity of the
place,” Pineda adds. And what could be more
“authentic” in constructing New Clark City
than using lahar or volcanic mudflow from the
Mount Pinatubo eruption back in 1991.
“If you look at the ancient cities of Europe, they are
built with stones and boulders of their places. This
time, in New Clark City or the entire Clark, we are
trying to put it together and give that new fiber of
the city, which is the lahar concrete,” says Pineda.
Even the designs behind the 20,000-seater
Athletic Stadium, and the Aquatics Center
with a 2,000 seating capacity was inspired by
Mount Pinatubo.
New Clark City, formerly the Clark Green City
project, used to be just all talk. Now, the project
is not too far from becoming a reality.
In just six months since Phase 1 of the project
broke ground, MTD says it is 20-percent
complete. The Economic Development, and
Infrastructure clusters led by Finance Secretary
Carlos Dominguez III, and Public Works
Secretary Mark Villar saw first-hand the construction
of New Clark City when they visited
the area in July. For Dominguez, the project is
the “showcase of the Duterte administration’s
economic strategy.”
New Clark City may be an ambitious project,
but it’s also been long overdue.
COLLECTIVE 7
Clark
International
Airport
A S H O W C A S E O F
M O D E R N F I L I P I N O
S E N S I B I L I T Y
By
PATRICIA RUTH CAILAO
8 COLLECTIVE
The expansion of the Clark International Airport
(CRK) is finally making headway after its
conceptualization for more than two decades.
For a long time, infrastructure projects in the
country have been hounded with controversies
and delays. But the present administration at
the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and
the Bases Conversion and Development Authority
(BCDA) vows not to count Clark airport as just
another delayed project. The project is on track
and people are getting closer to witnessing the
airport transform into an alternative global
gateway that would bring in huge investments
in the region and in the whole archipelago.
The Clark International airport operates in a
2,400-hectare land, roughly four times the size
of the entire Ninoy Aquino International Airport
(NAIA) complex in Manila. The average daily passenger
at the Clark airport is 7,000 and served by
a total of 481 weekly flights, 158 of which are international
flights and 323 are domestic routes.
The expansion of the airport, being handled by
the Megawide-GMR consortium, broke ground
in December 2017. The first phase of the project
entails the construction of a 10.2-hectare new,
world-class terminal in the airport which will
increase passenger capacity to eight million per
annum from the existing 4.2 million passengers
per year.
Aside from decongesting NAIA, what’s
promising about the Clark International
Airport is the design that will manifest the
modern Filipino architecture.
COLLECTIVE 9
NEWS
materials will be used in constructing the new
Clark International Airport terminal building as
well as New Clark City. Lahar concrete brought
out by Mt. Pinatubo will be the main fabric and
common component in the said projects.
NATURE-BASED DESIGN
The new terminal’s facade is inspired by the terrains
of Mt. Arayat and the Sierra Madre mountain
range. This will be echoed in the airport’s roofline.
Inside the new terminal, Pampanga’s local cultural
identity is celebrated with the ceiling inspired
by the province’s famous symbols, like
the parol or star lantern.
The Budji+Royal firm is behind the architectural
concept design of the new terminal.
According to Royal Pineda, principal architect
and CEO of the firm, embedding what’s authentic
about the Filipino sensibility in the project’s
design is not enough—there’s also a need to exhibit
a progressive Philippines to invite foreign
investors in Clark.
“Hopefully this time, we really get to present to
the world our modern and present status as a
nation, that we are ready for business,” he said.
Budji+Royal was also tapped by BCDA to design
the sports facilities in New Clark City for the
Philippines’ hosting of the 30th Southeast Asian
Games in 2019.
According to Pineda, advanced and sustainable
Arch. Pineda said that the send-off and welcome
sections at the entrance of the new terminal
will be open areas and surrounded by gardens
called the Tropical Plaza. The Tropical Plaza is
designed to reflect the warmth and friendliness
of Filipinos, he said.
Another local material, the bamboo, will be
used in the airport’s interiors to highlight a
cozy ambiance.
Lahar will also be used in the flooring of the airport
to imitate a terrazzo or marble finish for a
sophisticated look.
The expansion of the Clark International Airport
is expected to boost tourism and investments
in Central Luzon along with other projects
that will provide interconnectivity in the
whole archipelago.
Boarding gates at the new terminal open in the
first half of 2020.
10 COLLECTIVE
NEWS
COLLECTIVE 11
NEWS
“ Solid Backbone
for PH Growth
T
The government’s P8-trillion infrastructure
program under the “Build Build Build” strategy
will fuel economic growth in the country,
said President Rodrigo Duterte.
At the Boao Forum for Asia held in China on
April 10, 2018, the President said Build Build
Build will not only upgrade the country’s infrastructure
but also provide interconnectivity
among communities.
“Our Build, Build, Build program will provide
the solid backbone for growth. This will continue
to upgrade the infrastructure, connect
more people and communities and create
more jobs. Already we have started a threeyear
rolling program amounting to over US$69
billion until 2022,” Duterte said.
Some of the key infrastructure projects of
BCDA under the Build program are the expansion
of the Clark International Airport, and the
construction of the Subic-Clark railway and
the first smart and sustainable metropolis
called the New Clark City.
With all the developments in Clark, economic
managers are envisioning the area as the
“showcase” of the Duterte government’s strategy
to make growth more inclusive.
“It captures what the Build, Build, Build program
aspires to achieve: a coherent national
logistics circuit that will support our country’s
rapid and inclusive development,” Finance
Secretary Carlos “Sonny” Dominguez III said
at the second leg of the Philippine Economic
Briefing held in Clark.
“This, truly, is where the future begins. We envision
this as the hub of agro-industrial activities
as well as the home for cutting-edge technology
companies. Clark, in the near future,
will be the growth driver for Luzon,” he said.
And with Build, Build, Build comes Jobs, Jobs,
Jobs.
On May 29, the Build team launched the Jobs
portal, an online jobs site aimed at consolidating
all employment opportunities from all
concessionaires and construction companies
involved in the government’s flagship infrastructure
program.
12 COLLECTIVE
NEWS
World-class sports facilities
for world-class athletes
Once in a while, there are athletes like boxing
champion Manny Pacquiao, weightlifter Hidilyn
Diaz, and figure skater Michael Martinez,
who, despite the sorry state of Philippine sports,
manage to emerge victorious and win medals
for the country.
And while there are a lot of talented Filipino athletes,
they still need all the support they can get
from the government.
This is why BCDA, together with infrastructure
developer MTD Philippines, is fast tracking the
construction of world-class sports facilities in
New Clark City. MTD commits to finish the Athletic
Stadium and Aquatics Center by mid-October
in 2019, more than a month away from the
opening of the 30th Southeast Asian Games.
The sports facilities form part of the National
Government Administrative Center (NGAC)
Phase 1A that broke ground in January. Barely
six months later, steel columns were already
being installed for the Athletic Stadium. That’s
how fast the construction is at the NGAC.
On July 4, several Cabinet secretaries led by
Finance chief Carlos “Sonny” Dominguez III
personally visited and saw the developments
at NGAC. For Dominguez, the NGAC was an example
of a “quick project.” “We are trying to go
as fast as we can. This is the result,” Dominguez
told the media.
Joining Dominguez were Socioeconomic Planning
Secretary Ernesto Pernia, Transportation
Secretary Arthur Tugade, Public Works Secretary
Mark Villar, and BCDA President and CEO
Vivencio Dizon.
A few days later, Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan
Peter Cayetano led the Philippine SEA Games
Organizing Committee (PHISGOC) in a visit to
the construction site. Cayetano sits as the chairman
of the PHISGOC.
Philippine Olympic Committee president Ricky
Vargas said he was “very moved for the athletes.”
“The athletes will be encouraged by it, moved
by it to even perform better. Parang binihisan
mo sila eh. The athletes get into sports not only
for the love of sports but for many of them it’s
a way out of poverty and you’re showing them
the way how they can excel and helping them in
that process,” Vargas said.
The Athletic Stadium will have a 20,000 seating
capacity, while the Aquatic Center can accommodate
2,000 people. Aside from the two facilities,
an Athletes Village, which can accommodate
1,000 people, is also being constructed.
Indeed, the government’s support–not just
through words–will motivate athletes to work
harder for the flag.
COLLECTIVE 13
NEWS
AFP gets record-high
share from BCDA
Php 8.2 Billion to the AFP during
the first 2 years of the Duterte administration
Committed to its promise of strengthening the
Armed Forces while building great cities, the
Bases Conversion and Development Authority
(BCDA) contributed P8.2 billion to the AFP
during the first two years of the present administration
under President Rodrigo Duterte.
The amount represents 20 percent of the total
P40 billion received by the men and women in
uniform from BCDA since the state-run agency
was created in 1992.
“That just shows everyone how important the
AFP is to this administration. We want this to
just keep on growing and growing. We want that
trend to keep on going up,” said BCDA President
and CEO Vivencio Dizon.
But more than the monetary contributions,
BCDA is also honoring the sacrifices of the men
and women in uniform through other ways.
In April, BCDA, together with the Fort Bonifacio
Development Corporation (FBDC) unveiled the
Alab ng Puso sculpture as a tribute to the services
of the AFP.
Alab ng Puso (Fire in the Heart) sculpted by artist
Daniel dela Cruz portrays an ordinary Filipino
soldier with his weapon set aside, reading a
letter from his family.
For Dizon, the sculpture represents a soldier’s
commitment to put country first above self.
Two of the bravest soldiers who fought in Marawi
know exactly what it means to put country
first above self. BCDA was able to speak to Private
First Class Romeo Esperida Jr. and Corporal
Domingo Torreon, two of the 52 soldiers
who were granted hospitalization assistance by
BCDA in 2017.
Esperida and Torreon were beneficiaries of the
P5-million fund set up by BCDA in honor of the
heroism and bravery of the troops who fought
for the liberation of Marawi City. The fund allowed
injured troops to access medical treatments
at the St. Luke’s Medical Center.
BCDA is planning to make the P5-million allocation
a revolving fund for troops who cannot receive
the needed medical care in military hospitals
due to lack of facilities and doctors.
14 COLLECTIVE
SMART NEWS CITIES
ROADS IN NEW CLARK CITY
First-of-its kind
in the Philippines
By
PATRICIA RUTH CAILAO
Quality roads and an efficient public transportation
system are basic necessities in highly
urbanized cities. But in Metro Manila which is
home to a population of 12.8 million, poorly designed
roads that result in traffic jams and congestion
greet commuters every day.
In a 2017 study, the Japan International Cooperation
Agency (JICA) cited that the daily gridlock
in Metro Manila streets is costing the country
P3.5 billion in lost opportunities per day. And
the said economic cost is likely to reach P5.4 billion
a day in 2035.
Experts say this urban challenge can be blamed
from the lack of infrastructure that has hindered
the country’s growth for decades.
The World Economic Forum’s Competitiveness
Report for 2017-2018 showed the Philippines’
overall infrastructure lagging behind its Southeast
Asian neighbors, with a score of 3.4, seven
being the highest. The ASEAN economies’ infrastructure
performance was assessed in terms
of the quality and availability of roads, railroads,
ports, air transport, electricity, and telephones.
One of BCDA’s high-impact projects, the New
Clark City, will reverse the negative perception
about the country’s infrastructure. The wellplanned
New Clark City is designed to be the
country’s first smart, green, resilient metropolis.
The road network and public transportation
is already part of the first phase of the ongoing
construction.
Roads in New Clark City will be the first of their
kind in the Philippines. One of the primary
roads being built is a 55-meter, four-lane road
network which will have wider and walkable
sidewalks, bike lanes, and carriageways on opposite
sides.
Eco-friendly developments are also embedded
in the city’s road character. Part of the plan is to
have adequate space for street trees and ground
level plantings in its roads with bio-retention
swale to filter water runoff.
Another 55-meter, three-lane primary road will
also be built to include a bus rapid transit system
or a light rail transit envisioned to be the
main mode for mass transportation in the city.
The design of road networks in New Clark City
hopes to encourage riding public transportation,
walking, and cycling. In New Clark City,
everyone will reach their destinations on time
and stress-free.
COLLECTIVE 15
PROFILES
Fast Talk with
the Directors
The Corporate Communication Office gets up
close and personal with BCDA's newest additions
to its corporate family. Get to know the
other side of Board Directors Mr. David Diwa
and Mr. Gerard Camina.
~
Interviews by
MICHELLE SAN JUAN-DE VERA
Who inspires you?
G. Camiña: God, because I owe everything
to Him.
What and where is your favourite place in the
world?
G. Camiña: My farm in Guimaras where we
plant cacao, mangoes and coconuts.
Q: What are you most passionate about?
G. Camiña: Aside from my job, I am passionate
about golf. If I have free time, I usually do golf
four times a week. My home course is in Iloilo
Golf and Country Club but when I am in here in
Manila, I usually play in Villamor Air Base Golf
Course, the Philippine Navy Golf Club and Sta.
Elena Golf and Country Club.
Name one unique trait that you have.
G. Camiña: Loyalty.
What's your secret talent?
G. Camiña: I am very keen into details.
How do you find working in BCDA so far?
G. Camiña: Ooohhh…it’s challenging. BCDA is a
huge organization and I hope I can keep up.
GERARD
CAMINA
~
Date of Appointment:
May 8, 2018
16 COLLECTIVE
PROFILES
Who inspires you?
D. Diwa: Moses. Visionary. Fighter. Builder.
Leader. Faithful.
What and where is your favourite place in
the world?
D. Diwa: A beach in a small sitio in Western
Samar.
DAVID
DIWA
Date of Appointment:
February 7, 2018
What are you most passionate about?
D. Diwa: Helping other people, especially
exploited workers.
Name one unique trait that you have.
D. Diwa: Impulsive at times, especially
towards unfriendly people.
What's your secret talent?
D. Diwa: I can read a 200-page book in
one day.
How do you find working in BCDA so far?
D. Diwa: Ever heard of a labor leader participating
in making decisions about building
railroads, airports, gateway stations or urban
habitat worth billions of pesos in one
or two board meetings? That’s how BCDA
works and I find it truly important, challenging
and fulfilling.
COLLECTIVE 17
HEROES
Photo: PCOO
No regrets for
Marawi soldier
who almost went blind
18 COLLECTIVE
In "Heroes," BCDA tells the stories of ordinary Filipino soldiers
doing extraordinary duties for love of country.
By
KATHRINA CHARMAINE ALVAREZ
OOn February 13, 2018, Private First Class Romeo
Esperida Jr. was awarded the Order of Lapu-
Lapu with the Rank of Kampilan by President
Rodrigo Duterte in a ceremony in Malacaňang.
Dressed in full military gear, Esperida gave his
snappiest salute to his commander-in-chief.
Seeing the photo, it’s a bit difficult to imagine
that just eight months ago, the 27-year-old soldier
was fighting for his life in the battleground
of Marawi City. Marawi was declared “liberated”
in October 2017 by the President after months
of fighting between the Maute Group terrorists
and government troops.
HEROES
Esperida, a member of the 63rd Company of
the Marine Special Operations Group, suffered
severe injuries in a firefight with Maute Group
militants on June 9, 2017, wherein 13 of his
comrades died.
A newspaper report on the incident said Esperida
was “the most injured among the 40 troops
wounded in the clash.” Esperida suffered serious
injuries from a mortar shrapnel which tore
through his leg, arm, groin, and right eye.
Recalling what transpired, Esperida said he felt
that he only had a 50 percent chance of surviving.
“Paunti-unti, nagba-blackout na ako. Yung
tropa, grabe sampal sakin kasi alam na natutulog
na’ko…Hanggang sa pag-evacuate sa’min,
binibira kami ng ISIS.”
“Nag-decide yung officers na pa-withdraw na
kami kasi yung kalaban dumidikit na. Halos talagang
pwersahan na yung ginagawa ng Maute
ISIS fighters,” he said.
Esperida was one of the 52 soldiers granted
hospitalization assistance by BCDA in 2017.
An initial fund of P5 million was set up in honor
of the heroism and bravery of the troops who
fought for the liberation of Marawi City. The
fund allowed injured troops to access medical
treatments at the St. Luke’s Medical Center.
Photo: PCOO
Asked if he regrets
signing up for a task
that almost cost him his
life, Esperida said
without hesitation:
“Wala.”
Esperida was initially brought to Iligan and
Cagayan de Oro before he was transferred to the
V. Luna General Hospital in Quezon City. He said
he was informed of the BCDA fund for wounded
Marawi soldiers, allowing him to have his right
eye operated on at St. Luke’s in Taguig City.
“Okay na rin yung pakiramdam ko ngayon…
Parang normal na,” Esperida told BCDA in May.
Asked if he regrets signing up for a task that
almost cost him his life, Esperida said without
hesitation: “Wala.”
The BCDA is planning to make the P5-million
allocation a revolving fund for troops who cannot
receive the needed medical care in military
hospitals due to lack of facilities and doctors.
COLLECTIVE 19
TRAVEL
Unwind in
Thunderbird
Resorts
By
PATRICIA RUTH CAILAO
The Thunderbird Resorts & Casinos inside the
Poro Point Freeport Zone is one of the most
unique tourist destinations in North Luzon.
This Santorini-inspired resort not just offers a
stunning view of the ocean, but also a number of
luxurious amenities that families will sure enjoy.
Here are top things to do inside the resort:
SWIM
Plunge into Thunderbird’s famous infinity pool
which both kids and adults can enjoy. The infinity
pool also offers a beautiful scenery of
the ocean, the sunset, and the gorgeous Greek
design of the resort. It’s also convenient for visitors
to dine after a quick swim as restaurants
are just a few steps away from the infinity pool.
PLAY
Have a one-of-a-kind golfing experience at The
Cliffs Golf & Beach Club in Thunderbird! Their
3,372 dash yard and 9-hole all-weather golf
course features challenging obstacles of varying
degrees yet boasts well-maintained green
landscape and a breath-taking scenery of the
San Fernando Bay.
Since Thunderbird prioritizes the value of family,
included in their recreational spaces are
rooms such as the Kids’ Club and the Teenagers’
Club with a variety of electronic gaming facilities
for both parents and kids to bond.
WORKOUT
& DE-STRESS
Another way to unwind is to experience the
first-rate amenities in the hotel’s gym inside the
new clubhouse. Guests may also take advantage
of the wide and clean boardwalk/jogging paths
in Thunderbird where they can do their morning
exercise.
Aside from water sports, the resort also has
dedicated areas for playing basketball, volleyball,
and tennis.
INDULGE
Explore good food and various cuisines from
Thunderbird’s restaurants such as Olives
Restaurant that serves Mediterranean breakfast,
lunch and dinner; the Fira Beach Club, a
restobar that serves Japanese food; and Pianosa
Deli Shop that serves high-quality deli products
and mouth-watering pastries.
20 COLLECTIVE
LOCATORS
THE
S I L E N T
WORKERS
TWO YEARS AGO, WU RECALLS,
A TOURISM DEPARTMENT
OFFICER RECOMMENDED THE
E M P L O Y M E N T O F P E R S O N S W I T H
D I S A B I L I T I E S ( P W D S ) . W I T H O U T
A N Y H E S I T A T I O N , T H E C O U P L E
S T A R T E D H I R I N G D E A F W O R K E R S
B E C A U S E , A S T H E Y S A Y ,
WHY NOT?
By
KATHRINA CHARMAINE ALVAREZ
COLLECTIVE 21
LOCATORS
V
Vanessa Ada Cruz works an eight-hour shift,
six days a week, to earn a living for her family.
Wearing a face mask and an apron, she carefully
paints one of the metal frames to be used for
lighting fixtures exported to the US. Vanessa is
one of the 15 Deaf staff employed by La Forge
Designs, Inc. at the Clark Freeport Zone in Pampanga.
Nobody is disabled here.
We are all able to do
the work.
R O M M E L B U N D A L I A N
Chief Designer, La Forge
Rommel Bundalian and his wife, Rossy Wu,
manages La Forge, a partner of US-based company
Varaluz. Varaluz prides itself of producing
“unique” handmade lighting fixtures from
as simple as vanity lights to as something as
high-end as crystal chandeliers. According to
Bundalian, 95 percent of the products sold by
Varaluz are produced in Clark by La Forge—
each stamped with “Made in the Philippines.”
Some of the fixtures they produce even boast of
being eco-friendly as La Forge is also into recycling
shells and glass bottles, among others, for
their pieces. The pieces, sold mostly in the US,
usually range from US$15 to US$2,000. Bundalian
says they once designed a custom-made
lighting fixture for a church in San Francisco,
California measuring eight feet in height. He
says they usually join a biannual trade show in
Dallas, Texas where most of the orders come in.
As the demand for their products grew, La
Forge had to hire more people. Two years ago,
Wu recalls, a Tourism department officer recommended
the employment of persons with
disabilities (PWDs). Without any hesitation, the
couple started hiring Deaf workers because, as
they say, why not?
“I am very flexible. As long as there are more
people, they are healthy, they are willing to
work, [that’s fine]. We found out that these people
not only can work as good as normal people,
but at the same time, they have a very good
heart,” Wu said in an interview.
“They are just people with different abilities instead
of people with disabilities. They make a
good contribution to our company. We feel good
to have a group of workers like them,” she says.
A few meters away from where we spoke with
22 COLLECTIVE
LOCATORS
normal as everybody here. Just like what we
keep telling our workers, nobody is disabled
here. We are all able to do the work,” he says.
La Forge’s owners, a group of young ones—we
were told their ages ranged from 20 to 30 years
old—huddled in a sofa waiting for their turn to
be interviewed.
La Forge’s Human Resources Department Manager
Blue Manansala was holding a clipboard
and a pen. He tells us that they usually converse
with their Deaf staff through writing. Asked
why they chose to work for La Forge, they look
at each other then turn to Vanessa to write what
the group wants to say. She writes: “Because we
want to help [provide] the needs of our families
and for some, our kids. Also, we are here to help
improve the company.”
We then ask if they encounter any difficulties
with work, Vanessa writes that they consider
challenges as “experiences.” “We have learned
to work here in different items, and together
with teams,” she says.
They pose for a group photo with a sign they
made up that said “I love La Forge.”
According to Bundalian, their Deaf employees
do different kinds of work for the company:
frame preparations, sanding, painting, accessory
attachment, and packaging.
“They are treated here as normal persons. We
don’t discriminate. We actually treat them as
“We are all equal. Everybody is happy to mingle
with them. Everybody is trying to learn what
they are doing,” he adds.
Some of their employees have taken the initiative
to learn sign language. “In that sense,
natutulungan din nila yung ibang workers,” Accounting
Manager Merlyn Manalo says.
Manansala says the Deaf workers’ special education
teacher prior to working, “Ma’am May,”
usually visits them often. Some of the Deaf
workers, he says, underwent training with the
Technical Education and Skills Development
Authority (TESDA).
“Sa work, tinuturo, ito gagawin, yun ang gagawin.
Sa communication, parang nahihirapan sila.
Kailangan talaga i-demo,” Manansala says. He
was quick to add that some of the Deaf workers
“excel better in their work stations.”
And for the couple behind La Forge, the more,
the merrier. “If it is possible hire more, why
not?” says Wu.
At the end of our interview, the couple hand out
their business cards to us. We notice the tagline
of their company. It says “we bring light to life.”
This, of course, is true for Vanessa and the 14
others who were welcomed with open arms at
La Forge.
COLLECTIVE 23
Snapshots
A round-up of BCDA's milestones in the past quarter.
APRIL 4
BCDA President and CEO Vivencio Dizon presents developments of New Clark City project to President Rodrigo Duterte.
APRIL 16
Together with the Fort Bonifacio Development
Corporation, BCDA unveils the Alab ng
Puso sculpture as a tribute to the AFP.
APRIL 25 MAY 29
MTD Philippines starts the concrete pouring
at the National Government Administrative
Center in New Clark City.
BCDA transfers the replicated Philippine
Air Force (PAF) facilities and utilities to DND-
PAF through Secretary Delfin Lorenzana.
JULY 4
The economic team holds a site visit in New Clark City to check the
progress of the project's first phase.
JULY 7
Members of the Philippine SEA Games Organizing Committee hold
a site visit in New Clark City to inspect the construction of sports
facilities.
24 COLLECTIVE
FREEPORTS FREEPORTS AND AND ECOZONES
ECOZONES
Five Stars
for Clark Tourism
JULIA IGNACIO
Clark Development Corporation
Imagine scrolling through your social media
feed and chancing upon a post about your
dream destination - blue skies, crystal clear water,
tropical blooms, and a picturesque scenery
of a magnificent island.
Back in the days, traveling for leisure is considered
a luxury. But now, thanks to low-cost flights,
and the government’s resolve to improve infrastructure,
many tourists -- domestic and foreign
alike -- are exploring the Philippines. At Clark in
Pampanga, the influx of tourists created more
opportunities for the hospitality industry.
Just as Clark’s history and culture evolved
throughout the years, the number of businesses
and tourists also increased. International hotel
brands saw the market as the number of passengers
grew from 654,184 in 2010 to 1,514,531
in 2017. That’s a 59-percent increase in just
seven years. These numbers pushed the confidence
of hospitality developers in shaping their
companies’ future in a place like Clark.
Marriott Hotel is one of the leading brands that
saw an opportunity to be part of that progress.
It is the first five-star hotel to rise in Clark. Unknown
to many, the hotel started as a root beer
stand and later became a key player in the hospitality
industry, accommodating the needs of
every tourist around the world. Marriott chose
to expand its reach in offering modern accommodation,
exceptional dining, and contemporary
elegance to travelers of and locals in Central
Luzon.
A $60-million investment with a towering
16-storey structure nestled in the complex of
Widus Hotel and Casino to serve business and
holiday travellers, Marriott is set to change the
landscape of hotel businesses in Clark. With
approximately 260 rooms, the hotel will feature
various facilities and other amenities which will
fulfill your perfect getaway. This prestigious hotel,
which integrates luxury and modernity, is
set to open in September of this year. Alongside
other hotel chains and brands offering a cozy
and friendly vibe, Marriott Hotel will complement
the growth of Clark and of the country in
the coming years.
Developments may have touched the “wanderer”
within many people, but now more than
ever, what’s important is that they get a quick
escape from the strain of life. But for whatever
type of travel, rest assured that there will always
be a nearby hotel in Clark that’s always open
and ready to accommodate.
COLLECTIVE 25
FREEPORTS AND ECOZONES
FREEPORTS AND ECOZONES
Nowhere to go
but up
KARL DE LEON
Clark International Airport Corporation
With the increased number of domestic and
international flights and record-breaking passenger
count, Clark International Airport (CRK)
continues to manifest its much-touted role as
Asia’s next premier gateway as it extends its
wingspan to Northern Luzon.
There is an ongoing effort to further develop the
facilities of Clark International Airport. Divided
into four phases, the expansion is scheduled to
be completed before President Rodrigo Duterte
ends his term in 2022.
The primary stage of the four-phase development,
which started in December 2017, expects
to raise the terminal’s capacity to handle eight
million passengers every year. The said phase
also includes creating two access ways to the
terminal, one of which permits vehicles coming
from the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SC-
TEX) to access the terminal without having to enter
the Clark Freeport Zone. The first phase also
includes a separate building to accommodate
meeters and greeters and a bigger parking area.
The succeeding stages would further raise
CRK’s capacity from 22 million travelers, to 46
million, and ultimately to 80 million annually.
There will be a cargo terminal, a hangar for private
planes, and a new runway, which will allow
simultaneous take off and landing.
Clark’s civil flight complex expansion is doable,
what with its sufficient space of 2,367 hectares
(has), which is four times Ninoy Aquino International
Airport’s 600 has.
AIRPORT OF CHOICE
This is why the Clark airport has become an airport
of choice not only for Kapampangans, but
also for those residing in Regions 1, 2, and 3,
the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR), and
some parts of Manila.
With the increased availability of domestic and
international flights and its proximity to the
said target regions, CRK aims and continues
to become more accessible than ever. Clark is
now easier to reach with the Point to Point (P2P)
transport buses that bring travelers from Metro
Manila, Baguio City, Nueva Ecija, and Baler town
in Aurora area to Clark and vice versa.
Last May 24, CRK was able to reach its 1-millionth
passenger count in only five months and
is very likely to break the 1.5 million passenger
count of 2017, and even reach two million passengers
before the year ends. Such milestone
could be attributed with the increased number
of flights for the year 2018.
For CIAC President Alexander Cauguiran, the
goals are clear: to improve the facilities and
enhance the services to cope with the growing
demand of air travel.
Truly, in these times, one must keep moving
forward. Making a change sounds too big of a
task at first, but when one focuses on developing
on what one has been given, the burden of
creating a better Philippines becomes lighter.
With CIAC, there is nowhere to go but up.
26 COLLECTIVE
FREEPORTS AND ECOZONES
PORO POINT BAYWALK
A New
Recreational Haven
By
PORO POINT MANAGEMENT CORPORATION
Bikers and fun run enthusiasts in San Fernando
City, La Union will have something to look forward
to as developments in Poro Point Baywalk
are underway to encourage the conduct of more
recreational activities in the area.
The Department of Public Works and Highways
(DPWH) , in coordination with BCDA and its subsidiary,
the Poro Point Management Corporation
(PPMC), is constructing a 1.3-kilometer access
road leading to the Poro Point Baywalk tourism
and commercial areas. The P92-million project
consists of a bicycle lane, playgrounds, picnic
area, gazebos, amphitheatre and a commercial
strip.
Already, the baywalk has been significant in
boosting tourism and investments in San Fernando
City as the venue of the annual Sillag
Festival of Lights—one of the main events in the
Poro Point Freeport Zone.
The road project will not only improve the
transport experience of the people in the area
but will also immensely benefit the city’s growing
number of health and wellness groups who
frequently use the baywalk to hold their various
activities such as Zumba and fun runs.
Though the road used to be a one-way asphalt
dirt path used only for security cars patrolling
inside the freeport zone, a food house and a
travel tour shop are also in operation to serve
guests and clients coming in the baywalk.
In 2017, the Association of Tourism Industries
and Networks in the City of San Fernando, in
partnership with the local government, had an
innovative way of promoting fitness while observing
religious practice through “Visitkleta
Iglesia” (a spiritual excursion through biking).
The said activity benefited the community of
300 cyclists in the city.
Aside from the wellness groups that would
surely enjoy the said development, PPMC said
that the road project will eventually encourage
more locators to invest, which helps increase
revenues in the freeport zone.
COLLECTIVE 27
FREEPORTS AND ECOZONES
FROM 2 to 52:
Mang Ponce
Recalls the
Old Days of
John Hay
ZYRELLE DEL PRADO
John Hay Management Corporation
HALF A DECADE NOW,
Mang Ponce continues to walk on the same ground though the routes
have changed. Seeing the same pine trees, though some are no longer
standing, gives him a nostalgic feeling.
Half a decade ago and he still talks like he just turned two yesterday.
28 COLLECTIVE
FREEPORTS AND ECOZONES
Mang Ponce Recalls the
Old Days of John Hay
W
“With a knitted bonnet on my head and dressed how
with a layer of thick clothes, I would always get excited
to tag along with my Papa going to his work.”
Mr. Ponciano delos Reyes, Jr. or Mang Ponce as
he is fondly called is talking like it happened
yesterday. Now he is 52 and still walking on the
same grounds when he was a two-year old.
Camp John Hay was ordered by the President
of the United States in October 10, 1903 as a
mountain retreat for its military and civilian
personnel. It was established as a resort and vacation
haven, designed to rejuvenate weary servicemen
from combat in order to regain their
strength and vigor.
“Every gate was jointly guarded by US and Filipino
soldiers. There were sturdy and upright
men in their camouflage uniforms, 360-degrees
of green manicured grass slopes, and a
thick canopy of Benguet pine trees. And, oh,
that piney smell at dawn mixed with the morning
dew is unmatched by the most recommended
air freshener in the metro,” says Mang Ponce.
The Camp was the most spacious and stunning
U.S. military installation during its era. With its
sprawling area of 1,764 hectares, originally, it
was the refuge of a hundred cottages, a hospital, a
chapel, a movie house, mess halls, stores, and various
facilities for some sports and social activities.
A pet project of the US Commanding Generals
who assumed command since 1911, improvements,
renovations, and construction of roads,
hydro-electric plant, and water pumping station
were introduced. These made the Camp
self-sufficient, independent, and advanced
compared to other facilities established during
its time.
“The smell of their bread about to puff in the
oven still lingers in my mind. It’s extraordinary!
Incomparable with our famous pandesal, it
tastes soulful—my stomach would never forget
it battled the hunger with the mouth-watering
taste then.”
“May to June are my favorite months. And my
favorite months come with my favorite line
from my Papa - ‘Get a bag and lets go mushroom
picking. Picking wild mushrooms is one
of my most treasured memories of me and my
Papa. After the rain, we spend the whole afternoon
going on expeditions and it’s like playing
peek-a-boo in between pine trees. If we have
extra, I would trade a portion of it in exchange
for bread in the bakery.”
“Facilities and amenities inside the Camp were
manned by Filipino crewmen. Hence, as a kid, I
was always sought for,” he reminisced.
Half a decade now, Mang Ponce continues to
walk on the same ground though the routes
have changed. Seeing the same pine trees,
though some are no longer standing, gives him
a nostalgic feeling. Half a decade ago and he
still talks like he just turned two yesterday.
“How I wish we could go back through a time
capsule and you could travel with me. I will
show you more trees, more mushrooms, the
best bakery I’ve known, that wonderfully tastyv
loaf, the greener sceneries, the colder climate,
the environmentally-conscious camp.” “Oh
how I wish… If only...,” Mang Ponce says as he
closes his eyes as if to turn back time.
Fast forward to 2018, Mang Ponce, the cottage
attendant, is also an accomplished father to
three wonderful children. He bragged about
his son, Jay-ar, who is now a Certified Public
Accountant, his daughter, Jay Ann, who finished
a bachelor’s degree in Financial Management
and Accountancy, while the youngest, Jo
Anne is still in school under the K-12 program
of the government.
Now, he dreams of having a grandchild.
COLLECTIVE 29
FREEPORTS AND ECOZONES
Subic steps up
as the next Boracay
RUBEN VELORIA
Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority
Tourists don’t need to search far for an alternative
destination following the recent closure of
Boracay Island.
More than an investment haven and industrial
center, Subic offers unforgettable travel experiences
to both local and foreign visitors. In fact,
the former military base draws in more than two
million tourists every year resulting in P56 billion
worth of revenues.
With the influx of tourists, the Subic Bay Metropolitan
Authority (SBMA) has urged tourism operators
in the Subic Bay Freeport to upgrade its
facilities and services in order to take advantage of
the clean-up period in Boracay. SBMA Chairman
and Administrator Wilma Eisma challenged nearby
communities to keep up with the demand by
offering more world-class attractions for visitors.
GO TREKKING
Hike in Subic’s triple canopy forest and be
amazed by the beauty of its beautiful flora and
fauna. Tourists may also take a dip in one of the
many hidden streams fed by waterfalls, or choose
to interact with the local indigenous people who
teaches how to make fire and cook lunch using
bamboo tubes, and drink water from jungle vines.
WATERSPORTS
Summer is not the only time to enjoy watersports
in Subic. People can go swimming, windsurfing,
jet-skiing, parasailing, ride a yacht, go fishing, canoeing
or scuba diving. These activities may also
be enjoyed even during the rainy season.
VISIT THE ZOOBIC SAFARI
Zoobic Safari offers visitors a close encounter
with the largest members of the cat family—the
tigers, and other exotic animals, unlike the other
zoos in the country.
The Zoobic Safari is also home to the best animal
shows and educational entertainment about the
marine life with facilities like the Ocean Adventure
and the Beach Adventure Water Park.
LEARN HISTORY
Visitors may also take pleasure among historical
sites inside the Subic Freeport. These include the
Spanish Gate, San Roque Chapel, Tappan Park,
and other structures built during the Spanish rule.
A lot of underwater treasures can also be found
here in the form of sunken ships and other relics
that are open to divers.
30 COLLECTIVE
FREEPORTS AND DINER’S ECOZONES DIGEST
By:
LANQUIN SEYER GACUSAN
Risen from the ashes at the very heart
of Central Luzon is Clark, a developing
metropolis now becoming one of the
premier locations for local and foreign
businesses repositioning from the
busy and congested Metro Manila.
The Rodriguez family from Capas,
Tarlac found Clark as a perfect and
strategic site to build their diner concept
of serving the best of authentic
Kapampangan cuisine. A few years
back, the Rodriguezes’ plan was only to
franchise an already established food
chain but they wanted to do more—
to give hope to the Aeta and Abelling
tribes of Capas. Their goal was to help
elevate the livelihood of the indigenous
people from their hometown.
Hence, the idea of putting up a restaurant
was born, and Clark’s logistical
location turned the concept into full
circle. The Rodriguezes then relocated
the Aetas and Abellings they hired
from Capas to Clark, and supplied
them with basic needs like housing,
clothing, and food and transportation
allowance, among other things.
Matam-Ih means “delicious” in the Aeta
dialect, which is proven by the food that
they serve. Their wide array of authentic
Kapampangan selection is not only
delicious but also reasonably priced,
perfect for sharing with your special
someone, friends, or family. Their bestseller
meals are the adobong babi (pork
adobo), pritong hito, mustasa at buro
(fried catfish with mustard leaves and
fermented rice), and the bekugan babi
(pork sautéed in shrimp paste). They
also serve soups like braised pork or
beef, and the Filipino favorite sinigang,
and vegetable and grilled/barbecued
viands, and merienda or Filipino afternoon
snack choices.
But if you are into daring food delicacies,
the exotic fares like the betute tugak
(fried stuffed native frog), adobong
salagubang (beetle adobo), and pritong
adobong camaru (fried mole crickets)
should be a sure hit for you. Matam-Ih
also serves dishes using crocodile
meat occasionally. All the dishes at
Matam-Ih are served by the friendly
waiters given local celebrity names like
Anne Curtis and Kris Aquino, and even
international stars like Angelina Jolie
and Brad Pitt.
Not only will Matam-Ih satisfy your taste
buds, it will also surely amaze you with
the inviting ambiance of their restaurant’s
interiors, and the power ballads
belted out by the staff themselves.
Matam-Ih restaurant truly represents
what the Kapampangans are known
for—from the art of cooking to its culture
and history. Matam-Ih should unquestionably
be part of your bucket list
when visiting Pampanga.
Dine at Matam-ih! M. A, Manuel A. Roxas Hwy,
Clark Freeport Zone, Angeles, 2009 Pampanga
COLLECTIVE 31
ALAB NG PUSO
The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) and the Fort Bonifacio
Development Corporation (FBDC) pay tribute to the sacrifices of the men and women
in uniform through the "Alab ng Puso" sculpture installed at the Bonifacio Global City
in Taguig. The image, sculpted by artist Daniel dela Cruz, portrays an ordinary Filipino
soldier with his weapon set aside, reading a letter from his family.
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