With the ultimate goal of nurturing grassroots talents around the country.
Last Wednesday, August 13, the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) and the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).
The said partnership between the public institutions aims to decentralize globally standard facilities and accelerate grassroots sports development in key provinces in line with the PSC’s mission to establish world-class sporting hubs in strategic locations outside Metro Manila.
“This partnership with the Philippine Sports Commission is a force multiplier. By linking BCDA’s land development capabilities with PSC’s national sports mission, together we are laying the groundwork for future champions and promoting a healthier, more active Filipino nation,” said BCDA President and CEO Joshua Bingcang.
““These are not just sports facilities, they are investments that combine youth empowerment with economic progress,” PSC Chairman Pato Gregorio expressed. “I am happy the BCDA and PSC are equally committed to creating opportunities for regional development through sports. BCDA is a great partner, and with this collaboration, we are ready to hit the ground running.”
Through the agreement, joint task force will be created to identify and assess BCDA properties that could serve as hubs for elite training and sports facilities around the country.
Plans for funding models such as public-private partnerships, the adoption of advanced design and construction methods, and the establishment of professional management systems to ensure long-term maintenance and self-sufficiency are also to be outlined.
Among the prime locations identified for this initiative are the New Clark City, which has been envisioned as a premier national training center and is already home to world-class facilities such as the Athletics Stadium, Aquatics Center, Athletes’ Village, and the National Academy of Sports.
Other sites in several provinces have also been pointed as possible site including Laoag City; Tayabas, Quezon; Ormoc City, Leyte; Bacolod City, Negros Occidental; Siargao; Bukidnon; Zamboanga City; and General Santos City.