COLLECTIVE Issue Number 19–2022

COLLECTIVE

is a quarterly publication of the Bases Conversion and Development Authority.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Philippine Science High School Breaks Ground for Infinitum Campus in New Clark City

Flexing New Clark City: Your Sports Destination of Choice

New Clark City's Sporting Scene Alive and Kicking All Year

New Clark City is Chosen Venue for Asian Swimming Championship in 2023

New Clark City Sports Complex Bags Special Recognition at Philippines

Most Prestigious Property Awards

Pitching New Clark City to the World Snapshots

Holiday Snapshots

A Whole New Christmas World at the Manor

La Union Pasalubong Hub by Mimosa

Arts, Food, and Fun at Clark's Klaypel Land

One-Stop Processing on Wheels in Clark

What's in Store for Award-Winning BSP Complex in New Clark City

In Fort Bonifacio, A Door to Japan

Where to Eat in Clark Bonifacio March

Delfin N. Lorenzana

CHAIRMAN

Aileen Anunciacion R. Zosa

PRESIDENT AND

CEO

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Leilani Barlongay-Macasaet

EXECUTIVE EDITOR Annie Rose A. Laborte

MANAGING EDITOR AND CREATIVE DIRECTOR Marie Therese E. Cimafranca

CONTRIBUTORS Patria Iane M. Balilla, January Guia Caringal-Bawat, Chrisee Jalyssa V. dela Paz, Zyrelle del Prado, Julia Ignacio, Denver A. Moreno, Mary Grace C. Padin

PHOTOS Samuel Luke M. Galivo

@TheBCDAGroup

ON THE COVER

Philippines Football League defending champion United City Football Club holds the first ever football match in New Clark City in October 2022.

EDITORIAL ADDRESS

BCDA Corporate Center

2/F, Bonifacio Technology Center 31st Street cor. 2nd Ave. Bonifacio Global City Taguig City, Philippines

CONTACT NO. (632) 8575-1700

FAX (632) 8816-0996

E-MAIL bcda@bcda.gov.ph

WEBSITE

www.bcda.gov.ph

PHILIPPINE SCIENCE HIGH SCHOOL BREAKS GROUND FOR INFINITUM CAMPUS IN NEW CLARK CITY

A4.6-hectare Infinitum learning resource center of the Philippine Science High School (PSHS), is set to rise in New Clark City in Capas, Tarlac.

Built in partnership with the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), the campus is envisioned to be the center for 21 st-century learning and service continuity for the entire PSHS system. It is targeted to be operational by 2026.

BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Aileen R. Zosa, during the groundbreaking ceremonies held September 29, said the rise of the campus in New Clark City will be an important driver of knowledge-based industries which will locate in New Clark City, to provide the much-needed scientists, technicians, and specialists that make up the outstanding human resources pool there.

“At a time when Central and Northern Luzon are primed for growth, the rise of the state-of-the-art Infinitum in New Clark City will enable us to provide more opportunities for quality education to the next generation of leaders here. This way, we can ensure that, in decades to come,

the next generation can sustain—or even surpass—the growth we are helping to build here,” Ms. Zosa added. The Infinitum will serve as a campus for its senior high school students and resource center for teachers and professionals. It will house a multi-purpose academic building with classrooms, case rooms, library, faculty room, and dining hall; research center for chemistry, physics, environmental science and biology; technology hub for computer science, mathematics and humanities; innovation center; training center; dormitories; administration building; and summer camp area.

PSHS Central Luzon Campus Director Theresa Anne O. Diaz thanked the BCDA for making the PSHS “a part of this beautiful project of sustainable communities” in Clark Freeport and Special Economic Zone. In line with the sustainability guidelines of New Clark City, 80 percent of the total campus area will be open space. Only 20 percent will be occupied.

Science and Technology Secretary Renato Solidum, Jr., lauding PSHS for raising the bar for education standards, said its students are “fortunate to have the opportunity of experiencing quality education and learning experience through modern facilities.”

FLEXING NEW CLARK CITY

YOUR SPORTS DESTINATION OF CHOICE

By Annie Rose A. Laborte

Nothing beats a sports hub with world-class facilities at the heart of a trophy location that is New Clark City.

Positioned at the National Government Administrative Center (NGAC) in Capas, Tarlac, the New Clark City Sports Complex continues to break record of its personal best year after year, event after event.

For one, the year 2019 placed New Clark City on the map as a venue of world-class quality for sports tourism when the Philippines hosted the 30 th Southeast Asian Games.

Home of Champions and Future Champions

Now, the ‘home of champions’ in Central Luzon has become a popular sports destination. Enthusiasts and professional athletes alike have created an active sports community. Its accessibility to major transportation hubs and highways has also made it a favorite

venue for triathlon, swimming, and football, from within and outside the region.

World-Class

Built in only 18 months, New Clark City Sports Complex was opened in 2019. Except for a closure made necessary by the pandemic, the sports complex has, since then, been bringing athletes access to facilities of global standards. It has the 20,000-seater World Athletics-certified Athletics Stadium, with a nine-lane, 400-meter track and field oval, a six-lane warm-up track, and an indoor track. It also features the 2,000-seater Aquatics Center, with its 10-lane Olympic size swimming pool, a diving pool with inland diving training facility, and warm-up training pool. It is also equipped with the 525-unit Athletes’ Village, which can house 1,500 athletes, and has a basketball court, swimming pool, and fitness facilities.

No wonder, New Clark City Sports Complex is a multiawarded top sports tourism venue. (See related story on Page 13) .

NEW CLARK CITY’S SPORTING SCENE

ALIVE & KICKING ALIVE & KICKING

ALL YEAR

By Patria Iane M. Balilla

There is no doubt that New Clark City is becoming one of the country’s best sporting havens.

All year round, it is bustling with sporting events that draw thousands of athletes, sports enthusiasts, and fans who experience and witness the rising metropolis’ world-class sports facilities.

New Clark City made history anew by hosting its first-ever football matches since its opening during the 2019 Southeast Asian Games. The United City Football Club (UCFC), the Philippines Football League (PFL) defending champion, played two home matches at the New Clark City Athletics Stadium against Azkals Development Team (ADT) and Stallion Laguna FC on November 22 and October 5. This is part of the 2022-23 season of PFL which kicked off in August.

UCFC is also expected to hold more matches in New Clark City in the future. Aside from this historic feat, more sporting events happened in the last quarter of the year—from swimming competition series to multisport matches that showcase New Clark City’s marvel.

UNITED CITY FOOTBALL CLUB

4TH BSP MULTISPORT CLUB SPRINT TRIATHLON

Two hundred triathletes from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) conquered their fourth sprint triathlon, their first in New Clark City.

PHILIPPINE SWIMMING, INC. GRAND PRIX NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

Held on October 13 to 16, the World Championships served as the qualifying event where local tankers would not have to go abroad to meet the requirements. The swimmers must meet the FINA standard entry time to make it to two world tilts in Melbourne in Australia, and Fukuoka in Japan.

PSI SHORT COURSE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP

More swimming competitions by PSI were held at the worldclass Aquatics Center on November 11 to 13, with more than a hundred young swimmers joining this swim series.

GRABENG GRAVEL CHALLENGE

Supporting the Rotary Club of MakatiSan Antonio and the Philippine Cancer Society on November 27 are more than 230 cyclists who saddled up and explored unpaved roads of New Clark City to raise funds for breast and cervical cancer awareness. Along with this gravel bike event is a free cervical and breast cancer screening for women.

NATIONAL DUATHLON CHAMPIONSHIP

Adding to the roster of qualifying competitions in New Clark City, the Triathlon Association of the Philippines (TRAP) staged on December 4 the National Duathlon Championship, which served as part of the selection process for the Philippines’ national pool to compete in the 2023 Southeast Asian Games in Cambodia.

ARMY WARRIORS RUN

Raising funds for the Philippine Army’s dragon boat team on December 11 are more than 400 runners who trooped to New Clark City for the Army Warriors Run for a Cause fun run. This will help the Army Dragon Warriors for their international competition in Pattaya, Thailand in 2023.

TEAM BRO DUATHLON RACE

Team Bro organized a duathlon race in New Clark City on December 18 and brought over 250 duathletes. This marks the last sporting event of 2022.

2022 FINIS LONG COURSE SWIM COMPETITION (NATIONAL FINALS)

This competition held on December 17 to 18 caps off the long-course swim series of Finis Philippines, where tankers all over the country vie for the top spot.

On December 17, almost 100 kids from different schools and football clubs in Clark enjoyed a day of training and friendly football matches at the New Clark City Athletics Stadium. This is a training program for grassroots development organized by CIFA.

CLARK INTERNATIONAL FOOTBALL ACADEMY (CIFA) FOOTBALL TRAINING

EVENT-HOSTING AGREEMENT SEALED.

Asia Swimming Federation

Secretary General Taha

Al Kishry and Philippine Olympic Committee

President Abraham "Bambol" Tolentino sign a Memorandum of Understanding to host the 11th Asian Age Group Swimming Championships in November 2023 in New Clark City.

PHOTO BY: CARL VINCENT GUTIERREZ

NEW CLARK CITY IS CHOSEN VENUE FOR ASIAN SWIMMING CHAMPIONSHIP IN 2023

In recognition of its world-class facilities, the New Clark City Aquatics Center in Tarlac was chosen by the Asia Swimming Federation (AASF) as the host venue for the 11th Asian Age Group Swimming Championships scheduled in November 2023. More than 40 swimming federations across the region are expected to join.

Slated as the first international competition in New Clark City since it hosted the 30th Southeast Asian Games in 2019, the competition will include four aquatic disciplines: swimming, diving, water polo, and artistic swimming.

The Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) will be the organizer of the event, with the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) as partner for the venue.

MOA SIGNING

The event-hosting agreement was formalized through a Memorandum of Agreement with AASF Secretary General Taha S. Al Kishry and POC President Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino as signatories. The signing was witnessed by BCDA Senior Vice President for Corporate Services Arrey A. Perez.

“It was in December 2019 when we decided to host the Asian Age Group Swimming Championship here in New Clark City after the success of the SEA Games. Today, we announce the one-year countdown of the championship, which will happen in November 2023,” said Mr. Al Kishry.

Mr. Tolentino, for his part, said, “This is truly an opportunity for us to show our facilities and homegrown talents. Thank you to AASF for choosing the Philippines to host this great event."

Aside from the venue, the agreement also sets the requirements for the hosting of the Asian Age Group Championships, in accordance with AASF and Fédération Internationale de Natation (FINA) rules.

WORLD-CLASS FACILITIES

BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Aileen R. Zosa said the upcoming competition serves as another step towards achieving New Clark City’s vision of becoming a center of sports excellence in the country.

“We express our utmost gratitude to the AASF for its continued trust in the BCDA and for choosing New Clark City to host the region’s best swimmers for the Asian Age Group Swimming Championships next year. We are one with AASF’s vision of advancing the development of aquatic sports in the region, by ensuring a high-level competition that is compliant with international standards,” Ms. Zosa stated. In addition, Mr. Perez said this momentous competition will further cement New Clark City’s position as a prime venue for sporting events. “Our promise is this: we are with you in your vision of advancing the development of aquatic sports in the region, by ensuring a high-level competition that is of global standards.” AASF is the governing body of aquatic sports in Asia. It is duly recognized by the Olympic Council of Asia and FINA. Its mission is to elevate the importance and level of aquatics in the continent by organizing championships, activities, and events which encourage the participation of its 45 National Federation members. With a total seating capacity of 2,000, the New Clark City Aquatics Center is the only FINA-approved swimming facility in the Philippines. It features a 10-lane competition pool, eight-lane training pool, and a diving pool all designed and installed by Myrtha Pools, an official FINA partner and leading builder of made-to-measure competition pools. The New Clark City Aquatics Center is part of the National Government Administrative Center Phase 1 project.

NEW CLARK CITY SPORTS COMPLEX BAGS SPECIAL

RECOGNITION AT PHILIPPINES MOST PRESTIGIOUS PROPERTY AWARDS

The New Clark City Sports Complex was recognized for its innovative planning, architecture, and design by the biggest and most credible industry awards in the archipelago, the 10 th PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards.

The country’s real estate leaders recently gathered at the 10 th PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards anniversary gala to celebrate and give recognition to Filipino excellence in property development, architecture, and design. Among those who brought home big wins was New Clark City Sports Complex, which was awarded the Special Recognition For Public Facility.

“This feat is truly a testament to the Bases Conversion and Development Authority’s (BCDA) constant efforts to provide Filipinos the best public facilities possible by embedding sustainability, gender diversity and gender sensitivity, and smart components from planning to design and implementation,” said BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Aileen R. Zosa.

“With the help of our development partner MTD Philippines, architectural consultant Budji+Royal Architecture+Design, and all the men and women who worked on the Sports Complex, the New Clark City Sports Complex was born to give Filipinos a modern public facility they can be proud of,” Ms. Zosa added.

Opened in 2019, the New Clark City Sports Complex is the first major sports hub constructed by the government since the completion of the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex in 1934. The sports complex currently comprises

three major facilities, namely the World Athletics-certified Athletics Stadium, Fédération Internationale de Natation (FINA)-approved Aquatics Center, and the 525-unit Athletes’ Village.

The sports complex of New Clark City was put on the global map when it hosted the athletics and aquatic events of the 2019 Southeast Asian Games. Today, it hosts the safe return of the country’s much-awaited sporting events, from triathlon, to swimming, to football.

True to its vision of becoming the future home of athletes, New Clark City also houses the National Academy of Sports (NAS), a green and climate-resilient learning center and training ground for deserving Filipino scholar-athletes.

“Our promise is to continue building on our vision for New Clark City so we can open up more opportunities and provide a smart, sustainable and inclusive haven not just to those who live and work within the metropolis, but also to its surrounding communities,” said BCDA Officer-in-Charge Executive Vice President Atty. Gisela Z. Kalalo, who received the special recognition on behalf of the organization.

This special recognition is the latest of the awards New Clark City Sports Complex bagged in the past years.

The 20,000-seater New Clark City Athletics Stadium in 2021 received recognition from the World Architecture Festival (WAF) in the Completed Buildings - Sport Category, and was also shortlisted for the Engineering Prize of the same competition. In December 2020, the New Clark City was cited as the 2019 Sports Tourism Venue of the Year at the 4th Philippine Sports Tourism Awards.

“Our promise is to continue building on our vision for New Clark City so we can open up more opportunities and provide a smart, sustainable haven not just to those who live and work within the metropolis, but also to its surrounding communities.”

BCDA Officer-in-Charge Executive Vice President and COO Atty. Gisela Z. Kalalo

Pitching to the world

By Chrisee Jalyssa V. dela Paz

The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) visited Singapore, Taiwan, South Korea, and the United Kingdom (UK) in the last quarter of 2022 to promote investment opportunities in New Clark City.

Each stop was tailored to its business landscape and included deep dive sessions on key growth opportunities in the fields of diversified environmental services, engineering, information and communications technology (ICT), aviation solutions, and smart city technologies. These trade-boosting roadshows are key to realizing BCDA’s vision for New Clark City as the Philippines’ first smart, resilient, and green metropolis.

Philippine Investment

October 2022

BCDA urged over 200 Taiwanese businessmen to consider New Clark City as their future home in the Philippines. Projects being developed in New Clark City, such as the 288-hectare mixed-use industrial Filinvest Innovation Park were presented. This forum was organized by the Department of Trade and Industry-Board of Investments, in collaboration with the Philippine Trade and Investment Center in Taipei, Manila Economic and Cultural Office, and Taipei Economic and Cultural Office.

Aileen R. Zosa encouraged over 40 Filipino investors and entrepreneurs based in Hawaii, USA to consider investing in New Clark City as they pursue avenues of growth in the Philippines. The tour was organized as part of the Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii’s 30th Goodwill and Trade Mission to the Philippines led by Philippine Consul General to Hawaii Emil Fernandez and Vice Consul Jomar Sadie. The BCDA, together with Clark Development Corp. and Subic-Clark Alliance Development Council, hosted the site visit.

Forum in Taiwan

BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer

Tour of Filipino Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii in New Clark City October 2022

Second Round of B2B Meetings in Singapore November 2022

Pursuant to the Memorandum of Understanding signed during the state visit of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in September, the BCDA and its development partner Enterprise Singapore conducted a second round of business-to-business (B2B) and industry-focused meetings in Singapore with some of the region’s urban development leaders to move forward with the implementation of its plans and projects for New Clark City.

Among the companies they conducted meetings with in Singapore are in the fields of diversified environmental services, engineering, information and communications technology (ICT), aviation solutions, and smart city technologies.

Central Luzon Outbound Mission to Korea November 2022

A delegation from Central Luzon held an outbound business mission to attract South Korean investors by introducing Region 3, including New Clark City, as an ideal destination for their investment needs.

Hosted by the Central Luzon Growth Corridor Foundation Inc., the Central Luzon Outbound Trade and Investment Mission to Korea gave local government units and investment promotion agencies in the region the opportunity to establish linkages with Korean companies and benchmark best practices from industry experts.

New Clark City pitch at the Regent’s University in London December 2022

BCDA and its development partner the United Kingdom Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (UK FCDO) invited British companies to explore investment opportunities in New Clark City and participate in the development of the Philippines’ first smart, sustainable, and green metropolis.

The investment briefing dubbed “New Clark City: The Philippines’ Sustainable Futurecity and Green Investment Destination'' gained an audience of almost 60 British investors involved in priority industries, such as information and communications technology, hospitality, transportation, and research and development.

SNAPSHOTS

A ROUNDUP OF EVENTS DURING THE LAST QUARTER OF 2022

By Patria Iane M. Balilla

01

Pia Wurtzbach’s hike at Camp John Hay

OCTOBER 3

Even Miss Universe 2015

Pia Wurtzbach was stunned by the beauty of Camp John Hay’s Forest Bathing Trail. In her Instagram post, she flaunted her 7-km hike and said, “It’s not for the faint-hearted but still it’s an ideal workout to build strength lalo na sa (specially with the) legs! And not to mention forest bathing is good for the soul.”

02

High-speed internet at Clark International Airport

NOVEMBER

Adding to the airport‘s impressive features is a high-speed internet connection by broadband provider Converge. Converge and LIPAD Corporation run the modern CRK airport on direct internet access to ensure fast internet connection for passengers, and business tenants, and for the overall operations of the airport.

03

Philippine Air Force Riders Club visits New Clark City

NOVEMBER 3

Members of the Philippine Air Force Riders Club, led by Lieutenant General Connor Anthony D. Canlas Sr., rode their bikes to New Clark City as part of their advocacy for safe motorcyle riding. The Air Force chief described the rising metropolis as the “future commercial hub north of NCR,” adding that it is “a good investment opportunity not only for the Philippine Air Force but for the entire Armed Forces of the Philippines.”

04

SGV & Co. vouches for doing business in Clark

NOVEMBER 7

BCDA and SGV & Co. continue partnership by promoting Clark through an investment guide brochure, which provides reference on economic conditions, relevant tax and incentive laws, and business registration processes, among others to attract potential investors and locators in Clark.

05

BCDA joins AIBP Conference and Exhibition

NOVEMBER 15

BCDA PCEO Aileen R. Zosa presented how sustainability and technology are influencing the way BCDA projects are being developed during the 38th ASEAN Innovation Business Platform (AIBP) Conference and Exhibition

Philippines 2022. She highlighted the organization’s commitment to applying UN Sustainable Development Goals on its flagship projects, such as the new terminal of Clark International Airport and New Clark City.

06

Department of Tourism holds travel fair in Clark

NOVEMBER 18 TO 20

The Department of Tourism held the maiden edition of the North Luzon Travel Fair at the SMX Convention Center in Clark, Pampanga. Tourism Secretary Christine Frasco hailed the region as crucial in revitalizing the country’s tourism, which is rapidly catching up pace two years into the COVID-19 pandemic.

07

BCDA organizes forum with Philippine Army CMOR

NOVEMBER 24

The BCDA led the 26th Forum for the Philippine Army Civil-Military Operations Regiment (CMOR) as part of its efforts in forming a stronger connection with its major stakeholder, the Armed Forces of the Philippines. BCDA PCEO Aileen R. Zosa, together with BCDA Chairman Delfin N. Lorenzana, presented BCDA’s current efforts in AFP Modernization.

HOLIDAY SNAPSHOTS

Holiday rush gets into full swing after two years

By Marie Therese E. Cimafranca

The Christmas season has always been the paramount of celebrations in the Philippines. It starts as early as the first week of September—when every household beguiles in the tedious preparation of Christmas decors while putting together a long grocery list for noche buena, and parading overflowing energy to attend Simbang Gabi. However, the past two years have been challenging for Filipinos due to the pandemic. With strict lockdowns and health protocols in place, Christmas celebrations were involuntarily subdued.

Finally, resilience took over the global health emergency and spurred the return of normalcy—this is most evident during the Christmas season in 2022. The festive aura of the holidays was once again as vibrant as it was before. Bright lights, big crowds, and traffic jams swaddled every street. Homes were once again decked in colorful lights and decorations. Celebrations happened face-to-face.

The typical holiday scene was no longer a nostalgic phase— particularly in Metro Manila—as it ran into an outburst of crowds.

01

Vibrant fireworks display lit up Bonifacio Global City’s (BGC) skies every Friday night from November 18 to December 30. The luminous display at 5th Avenue added to the splendor of BGC’s impressive skyline.

02

Equally merry and bright as BGC’s embellished streets is Megaworld’s Uptown Bonifacio. With Uptown Mall as its centerpiece, get-togethers and sumptuous feasts with family and friends have never been more special and convenient.

03

The Yuletide season was made more memorable at BGC with its several picture-worthy Christmas displays scattered all over the business district.

04

Nothing screams more “Filipino Christmas” than hearing from the country's “Mr. Christmas” himself, Jose Mari Chan. Newport World Resort’s Christmas celebration was graced with a one-night concert with Mr. Chan accompanied by a local vocal group, The CompanY.

05

BGC’s months-long Christmas festivities were heightened by a series of concerts featuring local artists at High Street’s open spaces.

06

Uptown Mall’s five-level interiors transformed into a Christmas bliss with its botanical-themed decors garnished with capiz shell ornaments.

A WHOLE NEW CHRISTMAS WORLD AT THE MANOR

Camp John Hay rebuilds the perfect Christmas experience post-pandemic

By Zyrelle del Prado

Beginning November until February of every year, the Baguio City weather bureau would normally send advisories to bundle up with a sweater, scarf, and boots due to the city’s chilly climate.

Cool or cold as it is, the weather is perfect to bring families, friends, and foes together, and start to warm-up for the holidays. For some reason, this Baguio weather is enough to send them to make amends, rebuild, and strengthen relationships, no matter what degree it (both the weather and the relationship) is. That’s practically maximizing the oh-sofine weather at the City of Pines.

Festive Food and Music

The Baguio Voices Chorale set the tone for the Christmas Day festivities as they serenaded guests in the garden. To everyone’s delight, the choir’s deep, gentle voice warmed their hearts with joyful melodies. Le Chef prepared a lavish spread of delicious American, Japanese, and Filipino food. Gastronomic dreams of every guest were fulfilled, from roasted prime rib and lamb shank to classic ham, on-the-spot slicing of fresh salmon for sashimi, to local delicacies—smashing stuffed squid, shrimp medley, and lechon kawali (crispy fried pork belly).

As the night progressed, Outplayed Band shifted the garden atmosphere from mellow to a vibrant rock catchy tune. While guests sang along and danced to excitement, a toddler requested a children’s song, the Wheels on a Bus , transforming the crowd into a cheerful frenzy.

Complimentary Mats and Pillows

All guests received complimentary mats and pillows, which were spread

out on the ground for a more personal and meaningful viewing experience. Since COVID-19 is still a threat, the individual mats were to make sure the number of people gathered in one place were within allowable range. Not only were the eyes satisfied ; guests were treated to a choice of a hotdog or popcorn along with a drink or soda. Also, an area featuring locally produced vegetables and products were on display on their Manla’ko ed

THINGS TO DO AT CAMP JOHN HAY

Aside from its usual lush greeneries, Camp John Hay offers various activities for the whole family.

Choco-late de Batirol

Choco-late de Batirol is already famous for its traditional chocolate blend. Perfect with this famous chocolate drink is its musttry bibingka (Filipino baked coconut rice cakes) and turon de langka (plantain spring rolls with sweetened jackfruit strips) which are meant for sharing. Their bibingka serving is extraordinarily bigger than the typical size found at local markets, making it good for two. Sprinkled with cheese and baked in premium rice flour, Chocolate de Batirol’s bibingka is creamy and fluffy in just one bite. Grated coconut or muscovado sugar is also available upon request.

Trail run at the Yellow Trail which offers a 360-degree view of the Benguet Pines. The whole stretch is almost two kilometers. In fine weather, one can see the Kabayan mountain ranges while trekking.

Picnic at various areas inside the Camp. Visitors are reminded to “Clean as you go.”

Food trip at the Ayala Technohub where restaurants offer American, Japanese, and Filipino cuisines.

Picture-taking with the scenic backdrop of tall pine trees.

Turon de Langka is another typical merienda that Batirol elevates to something extraordinary. While some people prefer their turon without the langka, the strips in Choco-late de Batirol’s version do not dominate the flavor of the carefully chosen saging na saba (sweet plantain) picked at the ideal moment of ripeness.

Manor, the hotel’s own marketplace. Equally enchanting as the celebration itself, the whole Christmas experience at The Manor left everyone in awe. Not a single dull moment. Every corner was filled with laughter and giggles.

The Manor is usually fully booked from November to February every year. You may reach The Manor through its website www. campjohnhay.ph. For reservations at the Le Chef for that one of a kind gastronomic experience, call or text 0945-356-6035.

Aside from its traditional chocolate drink, Chocolate de Batirol also offers a selection of hot/ iced teas. Lemon grass tea is highly recommended.

Try horseback riding at Kabadyo area located just beside the Le Monet Hotel.

FROM RIVALRY TO SOLIDARITY

Entrepreneurs in La Union team up to open a souvenir hub

By January Guia Caringal-Bawat

La Union has always been one of the best tourist destinations in the Philippines. The province boasts of beautiful and majestic scenery definitely worth visiting. It also prides itself for having a wide variety of products—from food to retail—involving micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME).

Now a go-to shop for souvenir-savvy tourists, the La Union Pasalubong Hub by Mimosa at the Poro Point Baywalk, Poro Point Freeport Zone in San Fernando City speaks of a victorious journey of entrepreneurs in the province.

The Poro Point Baywalk is an ideal place for a pasalubong center, said the Mimosas , a group mostly composed of travel agency owners who were pre-pandemic competitors. For them, the baywalk solves tourists parking woes as it has a huge parking space.

Weavings, Food, and Wine

The Hub exclusively sells locally made products. Among these products are abel weavings (traditional woven product of Vigan and the Ilocos region), such as blankets, towels, shawl, and table runners. Lomboy wines (Filipino fruit wine made from the fruits of black plum [duhat]) and basi (wines and vinegar)

are also available. Basi is a fermented alcoholic beverage or wine made with sugarcane juice from the Ilocos region. Also being sold are food items (chips made from squash, banana, pako pakpako [fiddlehead fern], mushroom, cassava and taro); papaya and tomato flakes; eggplant and soy beans crunch; and chili paste; non-alcoholic beverages (ginger and turmeric tea, rice coffee and cacao tablea); and souvenir items (shirts, refrigerator magnets, keychains, bottle openers, and baskets). The La Union Pasalubong Hub also showcases the owners’ homemade frozen products, including longganisa (Filipino sweet sausage) and bagnet (deepfried crispy pork belly), which they learned at the height of the pandemic.

From Competitors to Partners

Rising through the challenge presented by the declining tourism industry, competitors-turned-partners Angeline C. Go of Atrium Travel & Tours, Ruth Vergara of Reinjan Travel and Tours, Yvette Capiral of Fast Travel and Tours, and Sheila Maglaya of Briggs-Kaith Travel and Tours, pooled their efforts and resources to keep their businesses afloat. At first, they teamed up and carpooled tourists in La Union as their public transportation services were suspended during the start of the pandemic. Soon, they partnered with Ms. Joanna Guerrero, owner of Foodearly (an errand service in La Union) and employee of the Provincial Government of La Union, to open the Hub souvenir shop. Mimosa, as they call themselves, was derived from the Spanish word “Mimoso,” referring to “someone or something that is affectionate and loving.”

Ms. Go enthused, “The pandemic showed us that no man is an island. Even if we were competitors, we chose to help and uplift one another.” They reached out to friends and other MSMEs to scout for locally produced items. Soon suppliers were contacting them.

Entrepreneurand Tourist-Friendly

The pasalubong (souvenir) hub aims to not only cater to tourists but also to provide opportunities to the MSMEs in La Union. To help the MSMEs bounce back, they were allotted stores to showcase their products free-of-charge. Looking back, the Mimosas knew everything was worthwhile: their driving to far-flung areas to connect with these local producers, finding student-suppliers, and giving a source of livelihood for those who lost their jobs. “For the local suppliers, we hope that they would not get tired of exploring more when it comes to the products. They are well-supported by the government so we can have a wide variety of products. We also hope that the custom of creating items, such as the abel, would be passed on and [the next generation would] continue the tradition. For our tourists, we promise not only to give and return the value of their money vis-à-vis the goods that they buy from us, but also to let them experience the best in La Union. The province has a lot to offer both in destinations and its friendly people,” Ms. Yvette concluded. Indeed, the Hub lives up to the name of the province of La Union, which means “the unio” in Spanish. As the region is said to be “a melting pot of Pangasinan, Ilocano, and Cordilleran (Igorot) cultures, so is the Hub showcasing a fusion of Filipino resilience, craftsmanship, and ingenuity.

ARTS, FOOD, AND FUN AT CLARK’S KLAYPEL LAND

Clark transforms into a melting pot of arts, food, and music

By Julia Ignacio

Vibrant hues, soulful music, and a wide array of culinary delights filled the Clark Parade Grounds in a month-long festivities of arts, food, and music at the Klaypel Land in Mabalacat, Pampanga.

Kicking off on November 30 and culminating on December 31, the festival added to the holiday vibe and joy of the season. It featured a variety of events and entertainment programs enjoyed by individuals and families from various communities around Clark Freeport and Economic Zone.

Paying Tribute to Local Artists

Klaypel Land paid special tribute to local creatives by showcasing their artworks. One of the event highlights was the display of giant art installations and other crafts by over a hundred local artists and students from across the region. These art exhibitions, which include paintings, murals, and other works of art created using different media, served as picturesque backdrops for festival-goers. Several Klaypel art pieces made of moist colored paper were also on display.

Established in 2005, Klaypel is a unique art medium made of recycled paper. Protected by Intellectual Rights, it is unique in the Philippines.

It seeks to empower people from all walks of life by making accessible DIY (Do-it-Yourself) art kits and even paintings by famous artists.

Jamming with the giant visual arts are live musical presentations by local performers. These provided satisfying moments of entertainment and recreation for the families and groups who attended the event.

Neil Cunanan, a 30-year old father of three kids, said he is happy his family can enjoy outdoor activities, such as the ones at Klaypel.

“I'm happy my kids get to enjoy here. Before, we couldn't really go outside that much. There are many things to see here, like the paintings and several spots where we can take pictures. It’s a good place to visit, specially this holiday," Mr. Cunanan enthused.

K ids and kids at heart alike had found adventure in the various carnival rides and games at the fair.

“It’s not my first time riding the Magic Swing but it feels more fun doing this with my siblings and my cousins,” shared a 15-year old Claire Anne Banaua.

Aside from these, local merchants and entrepreneurs were given an opportunity to showcase and promote their products, including local and international delicacies ranging from Kapampangan specialties to Japanese, Korean, and Western-inspired dishes.

Klaypel Land gave more color to the scenic atmosphere in Clark, while visitors and guests immersed themselves in the unique sights, sounds, and tastes at the festival. A visit to Klaypel Land certainly provided a memorable, fun-filled celebration for friends and family this Yuletide season.

ONE-STOP PROCESSING ON WHEELS IN CLARK

On-site, fast, and accessible government -related services to employees, locators, and stakeholders in Clark

The Clark Development Corporation (CDC), in partnership with various government agencies in Pampanga, launched its “One-Stop Processing on Wheels,” aimed at making services accessible to workers at the Clark Freeport Zone.

Operating on a weekly basis, the OSP on Wheels houses satellite government offices to serve locators in Clark by accommodating the information and service needs of workers, locators, investors, residents, and Overseas Filipino Workers in Clark.

The One-Stop Processing Center (OSPC) is an offshoot of the OSPW at the Clark Polytechnic compound.

ILLUSTRATION BY: MACROVECTOR

QUEST PLUS CLARK BAGS SPORTSTOURISM HOTEL OF THE YEAR

For delivering top-class hospitality service to hundreds of basketball game officials, players, and trainers during the PBA and FIBA Asian Cup Qualifiers in 2020 to 2021, and for being the first and only hotel to mount successful sports bubbles in the country, Quest Plus Clark was cited as the 2021 Philippine Sports Tourism Hotel of the Year.

The Sports Tourism Awards are given to outstanding contributors to the fastgrowing sports tourism in the country and their efforts in sustaining local and international events despite the challenges of the COVID19 pandemic in 2020 to 2021.

(+6345) 599 8000

clarkinfo@questhotelsandresortscom

questhotelsandresorts.com/clark/

“We think that this city will play [a vital role] not just for the Bangko Sentral but for the country also. And this will be truly a new important center of economic, financial, and other activities. [This] is a great center to many other things including leisure and sports. I am very confident that New Clark City is a great choice.”

BSP Governor Felipe Medalla

It will be the first LEEDand WELL-certified government facility in the Philippines.

WHAT’S IN STORE FOR AWARD-WINNING BSP COMPLEX IN NEW CLARK CITY

Its office facilities will house innovative tech integration and robust security features to safeguard the BSP’s currency production facilities, data centers, and IT systems.

Balancing the high-security BSP headquarters, a minting facility, and two Tier 3 Data Centers are its large areas of publiclyaccessible zones.

By Chrisee Jalyssa V. dela Paz

The design of the new Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Complex, which will sit on a 31-hectare land in New Clark City, was among the best in the world under the Architectural Design–Institutional Architecture category at the 2022 Architecture Master Prize competition. Designed by Aidea, the BSP complex is envisioned to be a global benchmark for a smart, green, and modern facility that promotes environmental sustainability and efficiency.

The complex will also include an academic building, BSP’s research academy, a museum, a sports complex, and retail spaces.

Its open grounds will have landscape features, wide vehicular parking facilities, interior roadways and walkways, as well as recreational areas.

The new BSP Complex will complement New Clark City’s vision of decongesting Metro Manila and stimulating economic growth in Central and Northern Luzon.

In Fort Bonifacio, a door to Japan

By Chrisee Jalyssa V. dela Paz

The newest Japanese envoy to the Philippines sits in a corner retail space in Bonifacio North, not in the form of a person, but of an establishment. Once you set foot in the newly opened Mitsukoshi Mall, you will be greeted by thoughtfully curated Japanese merchandise and brands from the highest-quality organic matcha drinks to shelves upon shelves of Japanese books and manga. Walking into Mitsukoshi is like that scene from The Chronicles of Narnia —entering a wardrobe and finding a whole new world.

After eight years of familiarization and planning, Federal Land, in partnership with Isetan Mitsukoshi Holdings and Nomura Real Estate Development, has finally opened the country’s first Mitsukoshi Mall, Japan’s oldest and most venerated department store.

While it is still in its soft opening stage, the Philippines’ first Japanese mall already looks promising. In the next few months, Mitsukoshi will be stocked with more brands and shops, making you feel like Japan is just right at the next corner.

Find that Japanese manga at Fully Booked

Fully Booked has partnered with Japanese bookstore chain Kinokuniya to offer a wider selection of Japanese books and manga as well as English titles, exclusively at its Mitsukoshi branch. Complementing the mall’s Japanese sensibility, the new Fully Booked branch also houses illustrator Yuko Shimizu’s mural, reflecting the fusion of Japanese and Filipino cultures.

Shop at Mitsukoshi Fresh

Entering Mitsukoshi Fresh somewhat feels like shopping at one of the Don Quijote stores in Tokyo, where you will be greeted with a wide variety of imported goods—from pasalubong staples, such as Kitkat Sake flavor and Tokyo Banana to Japanese rice meals and canned goods. You will also find ready-to-eat dishes, such as sashimi, inari, and nigiri, located near the food stall section of Mitsukoshi Fresh.

Get your rich and hearty ramen fix at Mendokoro

Famed ramen chain Mendokoro Ramenba transferred its BGC branch to a more spacious place in Mitsukoshi (from a smaller space at the Icon Plaza), sporting Japanese interior accents, such as hanging wooden ramen spoons, paper lanterns, and traditional masks on walls. If the long queue line had stopped you from having that rich and hearty ramen fix, then you’re in luck as the new BGC branch has a larger space to accommodate everyone. Plus, don’t miss the few branch-exclusive items on the menu!

End the day with a cup of tea at the Matcha Tokyo

The matcha-waited Matcha Tokyo has finally landed on Philippine soil, specifically on the ground floor of Mitsukoshi Mall. Its open bar provides a first-class seat to the meticulous process of whipping a matcha drink. What’s special about The Matcha Tokyo is the experience, allowing you to customize the drink based on your preferred sweetness and texture.

PHOTOS BY: MITSUKOSHI BGC; FULLY BOOKED; MENDOKORO RAMENBA; THE MATCHA TOKYO PH

Where to eat in Clark

Over the years, Clark has evolved from a historical site to the top leisure destination in Central Luzon. Check out the best stopovers for filling meals and coffee breaks.

By Marie Therese E. Cimafranca and Denver A. Moreno

Spanglish Restaurant

Spanglish, a restaurant located in Clark, Pampanga, is a true gem for food lovers in the area. With its unique blend of Spanish and Filipino cuisine, it offers a dining experience that is both delicious and culturally rich.

Upon entering Spanglish, you are immediately struck by the restaurant’s warm and inviting atmosphere. The decor is modern yet cozy, with comfortable seating and tasteful touches of Spanish and Filipino influence throughout the space. The staff is friendly and attentive, making sure you feel welcome and comfortable from the moment you arrive.

But it is the food at Spanglish that truly sets it apart. The menu features a variety of popular Mexican dishes with authentic flavors and techniques, resulting in a one-of-a-kind dining experience.

One standout dish is the Fajita, a mouthwatering rice dish that is cooked with succulent pieces of either chicken or steak, and served with Mexican rice, refried pinto beans, cheese, and Jalapeño. The combination of tender, flavorful meat and perfectly cooked onions and bell peppers is a true delight for the senses. Another must-try dish is the Chimichanga Plate, which consists of three deep-fried wraps of succulent meat, cheese, and pinto beans.

Spanglish is known for its affordable price point, while ensuring the highest quality in each ingredient. It shows in the taste and presentation of each dish.

Overall, Spanglish is a must-visit for anyone looking for a unique and delicious dining experience in Clark, Pampanga. With its warm and inviting atmosphere, friendly staff, and expertly crafted menu, it is sure to become a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Spanglish is located at the Pavilion Mall along M.A Roxas, Clark Freeport Zone. The restaurant is open everyday from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Here Café

With its industrial and functional minimalist interiors, curated set-up for the ‘gram,’ wide spaces, and good food and beverage offers, you will surely wouldn’t want to miss visiting Here Café in Clark. This newly opened café claims to be the largest in the Philippines, which can accommodate up to 500 customers.

Here Café is an Italian-inspired coffee shop that has a self-service bakery with a wide variety of bread options, coffee and non-coffee drinks, and brunch sets—from Italian-style of cooking, American, to Filipino—they have all these.

The Café is known for its signature menus, such as the galaxy lemonade, pain au chocolat (chocolate croissants), seafood marinara, and its original Here Pizza. Their menu prices are pocket-friendly, which ranges from Php115 to Php500.

Here Café is located at 2041 Ninoy Aquino Avenue, Clark Freeport Zone, Clark, Pampanga. Drop by between 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m from Monday to Thursday, and 6:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. Friday to Sunday.

Bonifacio March

To commemorate the 159th Andrés Bonifacio Day, Megaworld Corporation—the developer behind the burgeoning Uptown Bonifacio—unveiled a bronze statue depicting the hero in battle-ready form. The massive monument of Bonifacio straddles within an 832-square-meter park at the center of Uptown Bonifacio.

PHOTO BY: FMEGAWORLD CORPORATION