Duterte creates ‘back-up’ gov’t center in New Clark City

MANILA, Philippines — President Rodrigo Duterte has ordered the establishment of a national government administrative center (NGAC) in New Clark City, Tarlac to serve as “back-up” in times of disasters and emergencies.

In his Executive Order (EO) No. 119 dated Nov. 17, Duterte said the NGAC will “serve as an integrated government center outside the NCR [National Capital Region], and, in case of disaster, a recovery center and back-up administrative hub.”

The President ordered all departments and agencies under the Executive branch to establish satellite or field offices at the administrative center in New Clark City.

All government-owned or -controlled corporations, legislative and judicial branches of government were also encouraged to establish appropriate offices in the said government hub.

“The establishment of a back-up government center outside the NCR supports the policy of addressing longstanding issues on the lack of sustainable employment opportunities in the countryside, unbalanced regional development, and unequal distribution of wealth,” Duterte said in the EO released Wednesday.

The President also noted that this will foster ease of doing business, provide equal access to public services and create economic opportunities outside Metro Manila.

Duterte designated the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council to determine the phases and clusters on the establishment of satellite offices.

He also ordered the Bases Convention and Development Authority to assist government agencies in securing “advantageous, cost-efficient, and flexible” logistical and financial arrangements on the establishment of their respective offices.

EDV