New Clark City set for reopening to the public  

THE NEW Clark City in Capas, Tarlac — which is being developed as the new government administrative center and home to an athletics center used during the 2019 Southeast Asian Games — will be reopened to the public this weekend, the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) announced on Wednesday.   

“This comes after two years of restriction due to the pandemic, which prompted the BCDA to convert the National Government Administrative Center (NGAC) and Athletes’ Village in New Clark City into instant medical and isolation facilities as part of efforts to strengthen the country’s healthcare system,” the BCDA said in a statement.    

A soft reopening started on May 7 but a grand relaunching ceremony is set on May 28 and 29.   

The New Clark City will be open to visitors every weekend, with free access to open spaces and viewing areas within the sports facilities.   

“With easing lockdowns, BCDA felt that it is the right time to reopen New Clark City to the public, and enable visitors to experience what this future metropolis has to offer,” BCDA Chief Executive Officer Aristotle B. Batuhan said.    

This weekend’s event will begin with a ceremonial bike ride and fun run on May 28, to be joined by runners, bike enthusiasts, duathletes, triathletes, and national athletes returning from the 31st Southeast Asian Games in Hanoi, Vietnam. It will be followed by a free Zumba class.   

A street party will be held in the evening, with local bands and performers from Central Luzon. On May 29, cycling apparel brand Twin Cycle Gear will hold its first New Clark City Cycling Race Event, with around 500 participants expected.   

New Clark City has facilities and features such as the 4.5-hectare River Park, wide open spaces, jogging and bike lanes, parks, sidewalks, and sports facilities. — Revin Mikhael D. Ochave