State-run Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) is still seeking bids from private partners for the Passive Information and Communications Technology (ICT) infrastructure in New Clark City.

Joshua M. Bingcang, BCDA president and chief executive officer, said the ICT joint project, amounting to P2.53 billion, will involve expansion, repair, and future maintenance. 

The project is intended to strengthen New Clark's smart city development and e-government solutions, Bingcan said.

The BCDA, meanwhile, pushed back the deadline for prospective bidders to submit their eligibility requirements from Dec. 18, 2023, to Feb. 16, 2024. 

Bingcang said shortlisted private sector participants will be notified on Feb. 28, 2024.

“The commercialization of the [ICT infrastructure] in New Clark City in Tarlac is seen to attract high-value residents and businesses as it will form the foundation for robust fiber infrastructure and competitive retail internet services,” BCDA said.

Bingcang added that the commercializing the infrastructure project would allow future residents and businesses to gain fast and affordable internet services.

“We understand that to do this project effectively, we will need the expertise of the private sector which can help us create a vibrant and innovative competitive market for ICT services via an Open Access Model,” he explained.

The Open Access Model would allow multiple Data Transmission Providers (DTPs), which is essential in providing retail active services within the same network infrastructure, and give a variety of internet service provider options to choose from.

“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,” BCDA elaborated the need for a joint venture (JV).