Pursuing their shared goal of empowering local communities, the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), Hann Philippines Inc., (HPI) and Hann Foundation Inc. (HFI) have joined forces to establish a Php5 million multi-purpose pavilion within the upcoming Ayta Ethno Botanical Center (AEBC) in New Clark City, Tarlac.
On March 21, BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Joshua M. Bingcang, HFI Executive Director Ana Christi G. Galura, and HPI Director of Corporate Finance Sheila M. Rivera signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) for the construction of this vital structure inside the AEBC, providing the local community with a venue for training, meetings, assemblies, exhibits, and other activities to protect and preserve Ayta culture and heritage.
“In New Clark City, our goal is to ensure that economic growth and development benefit all sectors of society, especially our local Aeta communities. We are committed to empowering our stakeholders and building this Ayta Ethno Botanical Center into a cornerstone for agricultural education, innovation, and environmental stewardship,” said Engr. Bingcang.
“The AEBC is an example of how the collective action of the government and private sector can make a big impact on our communities. Everyone has a responsibility in nation building. Aside from promotion of cultural heritage, agriculture, and innovation, this project also promotes employment and entrepreneurship. Through the knowledge and skills that will be gained in the halls of the AEBC, our Aeta and Capampangan communities will be more future ready to become eventual colleagues or even business partners at Hann.” Galura said.
The 10-hectare Ayta Ethno Botanical Center (AEBC), spearheaded by the BCDA in partnership with the Department of Agriculture (DA) Regional Field Office III and the Pampanga State Agricultural University (PSAU), aims to scale up the agricultural capabilities of local farmers and fisherfolk, especially the Aeta communities in Pampanga and Tarlac.
This will also serve as a model for food forests to be established in other green areas of New Clark City. This will boost food security and provide livelihood opportunities for the community, while also maintaining a healthy ecosystem and improving climate resilience in Clark.
The project will be rolled out in three phases. The first phase will feature the multi-purpose pavilion, a ceremonial ground, a market, a coffee shop, a tamarind orchard, a coffee farm, and a pond. Phase 2 will include a mango orchard, picnic areas, and natural trails, while Phase 3 will add rice terraces, a bamboo grove, a dormitory, and a viewing deck.
Under the agreement, HFI shall finance and undertake the construction activities for the pavilion, in compliance with the conceptual plan drafted by the BCDA and PSAU for the AEBC. The BCDA shall prepare the structural and architectural design of the pavilion.
Moreover, the management and supervision of the entire AEBC will be handled by the BCDA in partnership with PSAU.
The signing of this MOA marks the beginning of a long-term collaboration between the BCDA and Hann to ensure the sustainability of the AEBC project. Hann has signified its commitment to provide other forms of assistance to AEBC beneficiaries, including sponsorship or provision of livelihood programs, and the curation of the Ayta Museum.
The establishment of the AEBC aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, specifically Goal No. 2: Zero Hunger, Goal No. 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, and Goal No. 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.