BCDA, DOST advance PSHS Training Center in New Clark City

NEW CLARK CITY, Philippines — The Bases Conversion and Development Authority and the Department of Science and Technology have signed an agreement aimed at advancing the construction and eventual operation of the Philippine Science High School Training Center in New Clark City, with partial operations targeted for early 2027.

The agreement sets out commitments covering facility management, campus infrastructure and the shared use of selected venues, according to a media release issued by the BCDA.

BCDA said it has secured funding for the first phase of the project, which is part of the development of New Clark City’s research and development district, where the PSHS campus is located.

Project development began in 2021, with an early phase completed in March 2023 that covered about 35% of the overall scope, according to the agency.

“Supporting the completion and operationalization of the PSHS Training Center is part of our commitment to make New Clark City a place for learning, innovation, and discovery, where Filipinos can participate and thrive in building the industries of tomorrow,” BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Joshua M. Bingcang said in the release.

Under the agreement, BCDA will undertake the complete fit-out of the training center and develop essential surrounding campus infrastructure, the agency said.

The framework also provides for utility connections and sets out cost-recovery guidelines for ongoing campus maintenance.

The agreement gives BCDA access and venue-use rights for events at the training center’s Plenary Hall and auxiliary spaces.

It also provides the agency naming rights for designated facilities, including major halls and training rooms.

“This collaboration goes far beyond building physical infrastructure. It is a long-term investment in our people, opening new pathways for learning, professional growth, and innovation,” DOST Secretary Renato Umali Solidum Jr. said.

The PSHS Infinitum campus in New Clark City is planned as a hub for senior high school education, teacher resources and administrative operations, with laboratories, academic facilities, training venues and staff quarters.

The Philippine Science High School System, an attached agency of the DOST, is tasked with developing students and professionals in science and technology.

The initiative is aligned with the government’s broader push to strengthen science, technology, engineering and mathematics education and national research capacity, the BCDA said.

Also present at the signing were PSHS System Executive Director Ronnalee N. Orteza, Deputy Executive Director Shena Faith M. Ganela, PSHS-Central Luzon Campus Director Theresa Anne O. Diaz, and BCDA Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Gisela Z. Kalalo.