Clark Green City development goes full blast

MANILA, Philippines – The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) has hurdled the final roadblock for the development of Clark Green City.

The state-run firm said yesterday it has secured the support of the Tarlac community—farmers, residents and local government officials—for the development of the 9,450-hectare flagship project located within the Clark Special Economic Zone.

With the backing of the local community, BCDA said development is now in full swing at the site.

“Road works are ongoing to improve and rehabilitate some 19.4 kilometers of existing roads leading to and within the Clark Green City,” BCDA president and chief executive director Arnel Paciano Casanova said.

“The farmers support and allow the construction of road networks in Clark Green City to fast-track development in the province and the region. They are aware that the Clark Green City will benefit the local community in terms of economic opportunities, job generation, and access to education,” he added.

Casanova said the BCDA has been in constant talks with local government officials and project-affected communities, including residents, farmers and indigenous people organizations, to ensure their concerns are being addressed.

“BCDA has been consulting with the farmers and residents since project inception in 2012 to ensure that they are involved in the development process. Transparency and cooperation are key factors to the success of this project. The development of Clark Green City will only happen if we work closely together,” he said.

“We have carefully looked into their issues and concerns and have incorporated their input in the development plan for Clark Green City,” the BCDA chief added.

Following a series of consultations and dialogues with the project stakeholders, Casanova said BCDA, the local government, business sector and project-affected people have come into common terms of supporting a shared vision of creating a green, disaster-resilient and smart metropolis.