AFTER two previous failed biddings, the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) is again looking for a joint venture (JV) partner for the P2.5-billion information and communications technology (ICT) infrastructure project in New Clark City under a competitive selection process.
In a statement on Thursday, BCDA said it has, with the assistance of the Asian Development Bank (ADB), opened the selection process for choosing a JV partner for the commercialization and, as necessary, the expansion, repair, and maintenance of passive ICT infrastructure in New Clark City.
In an invitation to bid posted on the BCDA website on May 19, 2025, the agency said the “JV Partner for the Project shall now be selected through competitive public bidding.”
Two previous attempts to get a JV partner were under the BCDA JV rules, the agency said.
The BCDA Public Relations Office said the first bidding held in November 2023 failed after the bidders were declared ineligible.
The agency said it then sought new proposals through a bid notice on Feb. 14, 2025 but this was eventually canceled to “align the Project with the process and requirements of the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Code and its implementing rules and regulations.”
BCDA said its JV guidelines allow for the participation of private sector partners in developing and commercializing BCDA properties and infrastructure. These guidelines are meant to facilitate partnerships for projects like the development of New Clark City, the BCDA said.
The BCDA said it targets to conclude the selection process this year, with the signing of the JV agreement seen by the fourth quarter of 2025.
Based on the terms, the project will be implemented under the “Open Access Fiber” model under which the BCDA will allow multiple data transmission providers (DTPs) to utilize the same physical network and share associated costs. The DTPs will then be able to provide affordable, innovative and carrier-grade ICT services to third parties.
The Open Access Fiber model will also serve as an anchor for smart city development and e-government solutions in New Clark City and will form the foundation for robust fiber infrastructure and competitive market for ICT services for government agencies, enterprises, and residents in New Clark City.
The BCDA said a pre-qualification conference will be held on June 4 at the ADB headquarters in Mandaluyong City. Interested parties may submit their bids until Sept. 4, 2024 at the BCDA Corporate Office in Taguig City.
