Marines’ new home starting to rise in Bataan

MANILA, Philippines — The new Philippine Marine Corps (PMC) headquarters will soon be constructed in Bataan province.

The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) will transform the 100-hectare Bataan Technology Park into the future home of PMC, which is currently headquartered on a 12-hectare camp in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.

Aristotle Batuhan, BCDA officer-in-charge, PMC commandant Maj. Gen. Ariel Caculitan and Philippine Navy Vice Commander Maj. Gen. Nestor Herico led the groundbreaking ceremony on Thursday (Nov. 4).

The project is estimated to cost P28 billion, with the P7.5 billion first phase targeted for completion in 2024.

Income-generating opportunities to raise funds for the military’s modernization program are expected when the PMC vacates Taguig City, which has been rapidly turning into a growing business district.

Bataan, a province northwest of Manila, is deemed as a strategic location for the future PMC home.

“We see the strategic value of this area and confirm that it offers a conducive place especially that we are in the midst of strengthening our Archipelagic Coastal Defense strategy,” said Caculitan.

“We thank the BCDA, the local government, and the people of Bataan for accommodating us here,” Caculitan said.

TSB