BCDA inks two deals during Japan trip
Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Joshua M. Bingcang and Zip Infrastructure Co. Ltd. CEO Takamasa Suchi sign a memorandum of understanding to conduct studies on the operations and maintenance of a self-driven cable car in the John Hay Special Economic Zone. Transportation Secretary Jaime J. Bautista, and Zip Infrastructure Director and Head of Business Development Mario Ian Carlos Ferido Rebonquin serve as witnesses.
The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) has formalized two agreements with Japanese organizations during a high-level visit to Tokyo, ensuring the smart and sustainable development of John Hay Special Economic Zone, New Clark City, and its other economic zones.
The first deal involves a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Zip Infrastructure Co. Ltd. to determine the viability of a self-driven cable car system in Camp John Hay, Baguio City.
BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Joshua M. Bingcang and Zip Infrastructure CEO Takamasa Suchi signed the MOU, with Transportation Secretary Jaime J. Bautista and Zip Infrastructure Director and Head of Business Development Mario Ian Carlos Ferido Rebonquin as witnesses.
Under this agreement, Zip Infrastructure shall prepare a feasibility study for the operations and maintenance of its self-driven cable car system called Zippar in Camp John Hay. This technology seeks to provide an alternative transportation system that can ease traffic congestion and provide better accessibility.
Zippar also offers a versatile design that allows riding in curves and branches while remaining automated and driven from a control center.
“This technology promises to enhance urban mobility, reduce traffic congestion, and promote environmentally sustainable transportation solutions. By leveraging Zippar technology, we can create a seamless and efficient transport system within Camp John Hay, making it more accessible and enjoyable for residents and visitors alike,” PCEO Bingcang said.
The BCDA also inked a three-year partnership with the Organization for Public-Private Partnerships Promotion Support (OPPS) of Japan to facilitate the promotion of investment opportunities in New Clark City and other BCDA economic zones to Japanese companies.
The MOU was signed by PCEO Bingcang and OPPS Director and Vice President Kimikazu Uemura, with Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Deputy Minister for Overseas Projects Seiichi Onodera, Japan Overseas Infrastructure Investment Corp. for Transport and Urban Development President and CEO Tatsuhiko Takesada, and BCDA Vice President for Engineering and Social Support Mark P. Torres as witnesses.
Through this partnership, the BCDA and OPPS seek to create business opportunities, promote information exchange between the public and private sector, and scope appropriate modes of partnership with Japanese companies interested in specific investment areas, such as housing, estate management, operations and maintenance of sports facilities, transportation, waste-to-energy, smart city development, retail, and other areas that may be required or agreed upon by both parties.
“OPPS as a steadfast advocate for BCDA’s projects, and leveraging on your Japanese network and expertise to attract investment and foster international partnerships will be crucial and invaluable in raising awareness about the opportunities available in New Clark City and in facilitating collaborations with global stakeholders,” said PCEO Bingcang.
OPPS is an organization of Japanese companies providing support services to realize PPPs and private finance initiatives. It helps industries screen infrastructure projects and supports coordination between Japanese companies and partner governments.
