PSC, BCDA partner to build John Hay Sports Center for grassroots athletes

In the Photo: (L-R) BCDA OIC SVP for Conversion and Development Engr. Mark P. Torres, John Hay Management Corporation (JHMC) President Manjit Singh Reandi, Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chairman John Patrick “Pato” Gregorio, BCDA Chairman Atty. Larry Paredes, BCDA, President and CEO Engr. Joshua M. Bingcang, PSC Commissioner Matthew P. Gaston, and PSC Commissioner Walter Frances K. Torres. BCDA photo

The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) and the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) have formalized their partnership to establish the John Hay Sports Center in Camp John Hay in Baguio City.

The establishment of the John Hay Sports Center aims to support diverse training programs for Filipino athletes, in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s administration’s efforts to make better use of government land and facilities while boosting local economic activity.

Under the agreement, BCDA shall allocate approximately 6,000 square meters within Camp John Hay, designated for the development of the John Hay Sports Center. The facility’s design is inspired by the mountains of the Cordillera and Baguio’s stepped landscape, which follows the natural shape of the land. Just like the terraces that rise step by step, the facility represents how athletes grow and improve over time, starting from the community level and moving toward top-level competition.

“The John Hay Sports Center shows our commitment to building future champions. In partnership with the Philippine Sports Commission, this facility gives athletes the support and environment they need to grow. By investing in quality sports infrastructure, we help the next generation of Filipino athletes reach their full potential and compete globally,” BCDA President and CEO Engr. Joshua M. Bingcang said.

The John Hay Sports Center will give national athletes steady access to quality indoor training spaces for futsal, floorball, mixed martial arts, netball, handball, and other sports. Beyond elite preparation, the Center will also serve as a hub for recreational sports promotion and grassroots development within the Baguio community.

“We want to strengthen national training while generating sustainable revenue to support our Regional Training Centers across the country,” said PSC Chairman John Patrick “Pato” Gregorio. “The John Hay Sports Center reinforces Baguio’s identity as a stronghold of champions and a vital pillar in the country’s sports development ecosystem.”

The BCDA will oversee the construction of the facility, which is targeted for completion within 18 months, and will handle the bidding process for both the design-and-build contractor and the future private operations and management partner. The PSC has already provided Php150 million in December 2025 as initial funding for the project and has committed to releasing the fullPhp500 million project cost within the term of the agreement.

Once the facility is completed, it will be formally turned over to the PSC, which will operate and maintain the sports center. The PSC will also be granted the right to use the property through a separate usufruct agreement.

This partnership continues BCDA’s collaboration with PSC to advance Philippine sports. Since 2025, BCDA and PSC have worked together on plans for training facilities in New Clark City, including a Philippine Tennis Center, while also making use of existing facilities to support athletes. #