BCDA reaffirms commitment to AFP modernization

CLARK FREEPORT--The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) has reaffirmed its commitment to continue cooperation with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and to support its modernization program.

BCDA Chairman Delfin N. Lorenzana guaranteed this commitment during the stakeholder’s forum on the role of BCDA in the AFP Modernization that was hosted by BCDA for the 7th Infantry (Kaugnay) Division of the Philippine Army at New Clark City (NCC) on August 25.

"We assure you that the right share from the sales, lease, and joint venture receipts of former military camps in Metro Manila are remitted for the modernization program of the military," Lorenzana sai d.

BCDA, a state-controlled enterprise, is mandated to help strengthen the armed forces by building great cities, spearheading the conversion of former military bases into centers of growth, and functional replication of military facilities.

The BCDA has been organizing fora since 2011 “to align with AFP” and explain its contribution to the AFP Modernization Program. Under Republic Act No. 7917, 35 percent of BCDA remittances to the national coffers shall be utilized to financially sustain modernization projects and aid in strengthening the AFP.

From 1993 to 2022, a total of P56.4 billion of BCDA disposition proceeds went to the AFP, about P45.3 billion of which went to the AFP Modernization Program, while P11.1 billion of its proceeds were utilized in the replication of military facilities.

Lorenzana, who was the former defense chief, also expressed gratitude to the 7th Infantry (Kaugnay) Division for their efforts to sustain peace and stability in the region.

It can be recalled that the BCDA inked an agreement with the said Philippine Army Division last May for the deployment of paramilitary troops to augment the security forces at the New Clark City.

Meanwhile, BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Aileen R. Zosa delivered a detailed presentation on the completed and ongoing projects of the agency that support the AFP Modernization efforts and responded to queries and suggestions from the troop.

Assistant Division Commander BGen. Luis Rex D. Bergante, speaking on behalf of MGen. Andrew D. Costelo, the Commanding General of the 7th Infantry (Kaugnay) Division, thanked BCDA for presenting the developments in New Clark City and updating them on BCDA's initiatives for the AFP.