SEN. Mark Villar has called for the swift passage of twin measures that aim to strengthen the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), ease congestion in the National Capital Region and accelerate economic development in the provinces. Speaking during a hearing of the Senate Committee on Government Corporations and Public Enterprises on Feb. 10, Villar said the proposed legislation would unlock the economic potential of former military bases and transform them into growth centers similar to Bonifacio Global City (BGC) in Taguig. “These bills will create development in the countryside. Metro Manila is so congested,” Villar said. “When we pass these bills, these former bases will become major hubs similar to BGC and be a tourist destination as well as an investment hub.” The measures seek to expand BCDA’s capacity to develop and manage state-owned lands by introducing reforms designed to attract long-term investments and generate employment outside the capital. Villar said the initiative aligns with broader government efforts to promote balanced regional development and reduce the over concentration of economic activity in Metro Manila. A key provision allows the conversion of up to 5 percent of BCDA’s economic and freeport zones from leasehold to freehold status. This would enable the sale of selected converted lands for residential purposes, a move Villar said could significantly boost investor interest and development prospects in provincial areas. “It is important to note that the investment it will generate in the countryside is very significant,” Villar said. “This is very important so we can generate additional investment, job opportunities and spur development. So instead of us being focused here in Metro Manila, we can have BGCs in provincial areas.” The BCDA has been instrumental in transforming former military reservations into major economic zones, including Bonifacio Global City, Newport City in Pasay and New Clark City in Tarlac. Villar said replicating these developments in other regions would help create new centers of commerce, tourism and employment. According to Villar, BCDA projects are expected to generate up to 1 million jobs once fully developed, providing a substantial boost to local economies and helping absorb workers amid ongoing labor market pressures. The proposed measures are expected to undergo further committee deliberations before being presented for plenary consideration. Villar expressed confidence that the reforms would contribute to long-term, inclusive growth by bringing investments and opportunities closer to communities outside Metro Manila.