The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) and the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) are working together on major township developments composed of 500,000 housing units in New Clark City, located in the Philippine province of Tarlac.

The two government agencies have recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to establish a partnership under President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino Housing (4PH) programme.

The ‘4PH’ is one of the Philippines’ flagship programmes that aims to build approximately six million housing units until 2028. It was launched in September last year, and DHSUD has been appointed as the lead implementing agency for the programme.

New Clark City is envisioned to be the country’s first smart, green and resilient metropolis, highly connected with mixed-use developments and an integrated transport system. This 9,450-ha greenfield project is being positioned as a world-class city that focuses on liveability and sustainability, and is expected to catalyse economic growth in Central Luzon. It has also attracted many international players, including well-known architects and engineering firms, among others.

During a discussion on the initial plans of BCDA for its inclusive housing and residential facilities, DHSUD revealed the huge potential of New Clark City in terms of township developments under the 4PH programme, which could provide a wide range of economic opportunities. DHSUD also proposed the construction of 500,000 housing units, and further affirmed its commitment to the rollout and eventual completion of these projects. Both agencies will have follow-up meetings soon to explore the plan.

“This could be the answer to decongestion of surrounding highly-urbanised areas, and also tapping the full economic potential of New Clark City by putting up residential structures, hence, the populace,” said Jose Rizalino Acuzar, secretary of DHSUD.

“A city built from scratch, New Clark City is being developed with the needs of the people at the forefront of our masterplan. We believe that New Clark City is one of the ideal sites for the Marcos administration’s housing programme, having the potential to play a key role in addressing the housing shortage in the country,” added Delfin Lorenzana, chairman of BCDA.

According to both agencies, the proposed housing sites will benefit residents and workers in Clark, regardless of age, background, and income. It will also provide housing facilities to families affected by government projects in New Clark City, as well as government employees and members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

“Once fully developed, we expect New Clark City to be home to roughly 1.2 million Filipinos. With the DHSUD as our partner, the BCDA is confident that we will be able to provide future residents with integrated, people-centred, and sustainable mixed-use developments where they can live comfortably,” said Joshua Bingcang, president and CEO of BCDA.

Image: DHSUD/BCDA