BCDA, Tarlac to open community college in New Clark City

In the Photo: Tarlac Governor Christian Tell A. Yap (center, left) and BCDA President and CEO Engr. Joshua M. Bingcang (center, right), on October 17, 2025, signed a memorandum of understanding on the establishment of Tarlac Community College in New Clark City. Also present during the signing were BCDA Officer-in-Charge, Senior Vice President for Conversion and Development Engr. Mark P. Torres (rightmost) and Tarlac Vice Governor Estelita M. Aquino (leftmost). BCDA photo

The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) and the Provincial Government of Tarlac have forged a landmark partnership to establish the Tarlac Community College in New Clark City, a move seen to boost regional development, expand access to affordable and quality education, and build a future-ready workforce in Central Luzon.

BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Engr. Joshua M. Bingcang and Tarlac Governor Christian Tell A. Yap on Friday, October 17, 2025, a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to initiate the planning and development of a five-hectare community college that will position New Clark City as an emerging hub for academic excellence, innovation, and inclusive growth.

“We are laying down the foundation for the establishment of the Tarlac Community College in New Clark City, a partnership between BCDA and the Provincial Government of Tarlac. This is in line with BCDA’s vision to strengthen university-industry linkage and equip our people with the skills needed for future industries,” said Engr. Bingcang.

Under the MOU, BCDA will identify and make available an area within New Clark City for the proposed campus, while the Provincial Government of Tarlac will lead its development, financing, and academic programming. The initiative forms part of BCDA’s efforts to attract educational institutions and research centers that will shape New Clark City into a beacon of learning and innovation.

Governor Yap underscored the transformative impact of the project: “We are very grateful for the property being offered for the development of this future training center and community college for our kababayans in the western side of the province of Tarlac. The best service we can provide them is to empower them with livelihood, jobs, and other opportunities…We have the platform here in New Clark City to develop all of our dreams.”

Tarlac Community College is envisioned to offer courses aligned with emerging industries and future employment trends, enhancing human capital and contributing to the socioeconomic advancement of Tarlac and its surrounding areas.

As a smart, green, disaster-resilient, and inclusive metropolis, New Clark City dedicates 60% of its land area to open spaces and sustainability-driven development. The addition of a premier educational institution strengthens its identity as a city built not only for infrastructure and commerce, but also for community building and nation-building. Other institutions that are already establishing their presence in New Clark City, including the National Academy of Sports, the University of the Philippines, and the Philippine Science High School, further solidify its position as an emerging academic and innovation hub for the country.

BCDA and the Provincial Government of Tarlac will convene regular coordination meetings to ensure the project’s alignment with the New Clark City master plan and national development objectives. A separate agreement will be executed upon finalization of the project’s scope and implementation terms. #