Deadline extended for submission of New Clark City bid documents
State-run Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) is extending the deadline for the submission of eligibility requirements for the commercialization of the passive information and communications technology (ICT) infrastructure in New Clark City.
“Heeding the call of prospective bidders, the BCDA has extended the deadline of submission of eligibility requirements to Feb. 16, 2024,” the BCDA said.
The deadline for the submission of eligibility requirements was previously set for Dec. 18, 2023.
The BCDA invited in October 2022 prospective bidders to submit their pre-eligibility requirements for the disposition of the passive ICT infrastructure of New Clark City.
The project, with an estimated cost of P2.53 billion, will be undertaken through a joint venture that will handle the commercialization, as well as the expansion, repair, and maintenance of the passive ICT infrastructure in New Clark City.
The BCDA said that the commercialization of the passive ICT infrastructure is expected to attract high-value residents and businesses as it would create the foundation for robust fiber infrastructure and competitive retail internet services in the 9,450-hectare metropolis.
“We understand that to do this project effectively, we will need the expertise of the private sector who can help us create a vibrant and innovative competitive market for ICT services via an open access model,” BCDA president and chief executive officer Joshua Bingcang said.
The open access model allows multiple data transmission providers (DTP) to use the passive ICT services, to be made available by the joint venture via an underground network, subject to associated costs, the BCDA explained.
Meanwhile, DTP will be able to offer retail active services over the same access network infrastructure.
The BCDA said the open access model would provide subscribers with a wider array of internet service provider options.
“This project is key to unlocking the potential of New Clark City as a smart and sustainable metropolis where its citizens have equal access to fast, reliable and affordable internet services,” Bingcang said.
In a 2022 discussion paper released by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS), the socioeconomic policy think tank underscored the importance of partnerships between the private and public sectors in reducing the digital divide, including the delivery of government plans and programs.
“The commercialization of the passive ICT infrastructure in New Clark City will serve as an anchor for smart city development and egovernment solutions, which are highly dependent on resilient fibergrade connectivity and data centers,” the BCDA said.
The opening of eligibility documents is scheduled on Feb, 16, 12:00 noon at the BCDA Office, 2/F Bonifacio Technology Center, 31st Street cor. 2nd Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.