A bill seeking to unlock portions of Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) properties for housing, employment, and new economic activity has passed second reading approval at the House of Representatives.
House Bill No. 9257 seeks to amend Republic Act No. 7227, or the Bases Conversion and Development Act of 1992, by declaring selected portions of BCDA properties as alienable and disposable lands, subject to strict planning standards and presidential approval.
The proposal aims to address long-standing limits in BCDA-managed areas, where development has largely operated under a leasehold framework. Supporters of the measure said this has made it difficult for many workers to secure permanent and affordable homes near their workplaces.
Under the bill, up to 10 percent of the total land area of major BCDA-managed economic zones and reservations may be opened for development. These include the Clark Special Economic Zone, New Clark City, Clark Freeport Zone, Poro Point Freeport Zone, John Hay Reservation, and the Bataan Technology Park within the Morong Special Economic Zone.
Of the identified areas, five percent would be allotted for residential and mixed-use development, while another five percent would be set aside for institutional and industrial use.
The measure also authorizes the President to declare an additional five percent for similar purposes, depending on market demand and prevailing economic conditions.
Proponents said the bill would allow a limited and carefully planned freehold arrangement for residential areas in BCDA zones, giving more Filipinos the chance to own homes closer to where they work.
The proposal is also expected to support the creation of stronger communities around major economic hubs by integrating housing with industrial, institutional, and mixed-use developments.
During deliberations, the measure was described as a way to make growth in former military bases and development zones more inclusive by expanding access to decent housing, generating jobs, and attracting investments in key areas across the country.
The bill forms part of the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council Common Legislative Agenda, which includes measures identified as priority reforms for economic growth and development.