BCDA, Japan Bank ink deal to boost Japanese investments in Luzon infra
State-run Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) is expected to welcome more investments from Japan following an agreement with the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC), focusing on the creation of new business opportunities for Japanese firms.
In a statement on its website, the JBIC said it entered into a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the BCDA on Sept. 30 to formalize the partnership.
JBIC, a policy-based financial institution promoting the overseas development and securement of resources important to Japan, views the collaboration with BCDA as crucial step in expanding opportunities for Japanese companies seeking to expand their footprint.
In particular, the agreement aims to create opportunities for businesses involved in decarbonization and infrastructure development, with a focus on Luzon.
BCDA, a government-owned and controlled corporation that develops former American military bases into economic hubs in partnership with the private sector, carries out its infrastructure development projects in Luzon.
BCDA’s properties include New Clark City, Clark Freeport and Special Economic Zone, John Hay Special Economic Zone, Bonifacio Global City, Newport City, McKinley Hill, Poro Point Freeport Zone, and Bataan Technology Park.
“Through the stronger ties between JBIC and BCDA, the MOU aims to promote collaboration opportunities for Japanese companies and BCDA,” JBIC said.
The JBIC stated that these potential investments will support the development and implementation of the BCDA’s projects and programs, focusing on energy transition and quality infrastructure.
It noted that this can be pursued through initiatives such as introducing Japanese technologies that contribute to BCDA’s project development.
In pursuit of its Fifth Medium-Term Business Plan, launched in June last year, the JBIC aims to contribute to achieving both carbon neutrality and economic growth, as well as addressing social issues, in collaboration with host countries.
“The signing of the MOU is in line with this plan, as well as the concept of the Asia Zero Emission Community (AZEC), released by the government of Japan as a framework for energy transition in Asia,” it added.
The JBIC said that forging a partnership with BCDA is part of its commitment to supporting the creation of business opportunities, contributing to the maintenance and improvement of the international competitiveness of Japanese industry.