Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco and BCDA President and CEO Joshua M. Bingcang signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on Monday, March 9, to activate collaborative efforts in marketing New Clark City as a major venue for sports competitions and training.
Officials said the partnership will leverage the DOT’s marketing capabilities and global tourism network to help stage events and activities that can boost tourism while supporting economic development in Tarlac and nearby communities.
Sports tourism push
Under the agreement, the two agencies will work together to promote New Clark City’s sports infrastructure and attract high-level sporting events to the Philippines.
The initiative is also aligned with the Marcos administration’s goal of strengthening the country’s global image through the hosting of international sporting competitions.
“The areas under BCDA's stewardship present opportunities for tourism growth. New Clark City, in particular, has demonstrated the capacity to host major sporting events—and successfully so,” Frasco said.
“With its modern sports facilities and integrated development, it is well positioned to strengthen the Philippines’ role in sports tourism,” she added.
Frasco said the partnership will also help maximize destinations under BCDA’s management as drivers of tourism activity, investments, and job creation.
Clark sports hub
For his part, Bingcang said the partnership supports BCDA’s vision of positioning New Clark City as a center for sports excellence and a home for Filipino athletes.
“By promoting sports tourism together, we elevate New Clark City’s standing as a premier destination for training and competition while creating opportunities for local businesses, workers, and communities,” he said.
Under the MOU, DOT and BCDA will collaborate on marketing campaigns, tourism promotions, and the staging of sports-related events.
They will also develop tourism programs and tour packages that combine sports competitions with local culture, heritage experiences, and leisure activities to enhance the overall visitor experience.
Athlete development hub
BCDA continues to expand sports development initiatives in New Clark City by leveraging its internationally accredited sports facilities and partnerships with key institutions.
The agency has partnered with the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) to provide national athletes full-time access to New Clark City training facilities.
The PSC is also considering building a 10-hectare multi-disciplinary sports complex in the city.
Another partnership with the Philippine Tennis Association is expected to lead to the development of a 10-hectare tennis center in the area.
New Clark City is also home to the National Academy of Sports, where young Filipino athletes are trained and nurtured to become future champions.
Officials said these initiatives aim to strengthen the country’s sports ecosystem while positioning New Clark City as a regional destination for sports tourism. —Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
