PBBM vetoes bill amending BCDA charter

By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos, Philippine News Agency

Marcos thumbed down the proposed amendments to the BCDA charter because of potential conflict with existing laws and adverse impact on the government’s fiscal position, according to the PCO statement. (PCO file photo)

MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has vetoed the measure amending the charter of the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) announced on Saturday.

Marcos thumbed down the proposed amendments to the BCDA charter because of potential conflict with existing laws and adverse impact on the government’s fiscal position, according to the PCO statement.

“Although President Marcos recognized Congress’ noble intention in crafting the bill, he said he could not ignore the concerns raised by the national agencies,” the PCO said.

In his veto message dated April 24 and transmitted to Congress, Marcos raised concerns over some of the provisions of the enrolled bill, including the proposed increase of PHP100 billion in authorized capital, saying it could affect the government’s fiscal integrity.

He said the proposal to use the proceeds from the sale of the allocated lands from the ecozones to accrue mainly to the BCDA is “inconsistent” with the government’s one-fund policy, limiting its fiscal flexibility in deciding fund utilization for more pressing concerns.

“In addition, the bill antithetically grants to the BCDA the authority to determine alienable and disposable lands, which clearly falls under the mandate of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources,” he said.

Marcos said the bill’s language granting land ownership and authority to the BCDA in disposing of lands also contradicts Republic v. Heirs of Bernabe, which provides that the state is the beneficial owner of the lands transferred to the BCDA under Republic Act (RA) 7227, or the Bases Conversion and Development Act of 1992.

The BCDA remains a major force in creating economic opportunities in the country through the establishment of integrated developments, dynamic business centers, and vibrant communities.

It engages in public-private partnerships to push forward vital public infrastructure, such as tollways, airports, seaports, and major real estate developments.

Through the years, the BCDA has proven to be one of the most successful government agencies in attracting investments, creating jobs for the Filipino people, and boosting the Philippine economy.

Some of the BCDA’s accomplishments are the development of economic hubs, such as the Bonifacio Global City and the Newport City, and the completion of the 93.77 km. Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway.

The BCDA is positioning Clark as the next investment center in Asia through high-impact projects, such as the New Clark City and the expansion of the Clark International Airport.