Manila: Officials of the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) are currently evaluating a PHP15-billion unsolicited proposal from a South Korean firm and a local water utility to ensure a sustainable water supply for the developing New Clark City in Tarlac. BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Joshua Bingcang announced that the agency has a 10-day period to assess and an 80-day window to negotiate the proposal, which involves a joint-venture arrangement for the operation and management of water and wastewater services.
According to Philippines News Agency, the proposal was initially submitted in October of the previous year to the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Center by Korea Water Resources Group (K-Water) and Maynilad Water Services Inc. This initiative is crucial as New Clark City currently demands approximately 20 to 30 million liters of water daily, a figure projected to increase with the influx of more locators.
BCDA received this proposal from the PPP Center on Wednesday. Bingcang emphasized the commitment to ensuring timely water availability for locators, particularly data centers. He noted that the proposal's submission was postponed due to Maynilad's initial public offering in November of the previous year.
In a strategic move to enhance water resource management, BCDA and K-Water signed two memoranda of understanding in July 2024. These agreements aim to develop comprehensive water resource plans for both New Clark City and Camp John Hay in Baguio City, reflecting the ongoing efforts to address future water needs in these regions.
