BCDA CSR and Stakeholder Relations Division Head Maricar S. Villamil (third from left), BCDA OIC SVP for Conversion and Development Engr. Mark P. Torres (fourth from left) and SBMA Chairman and Administrator Hon. Engr. Eduardo Jose L. Aliño (fifth from left) with volunteers from BCDA, CLMA, and SBMA. BCDA photo
For the third consecutive year, volunteers from the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) went hands-on for an impactful mangrove planting activity in Binictican, Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Zambales.
Held in celebration of the 47th Anniversary of the Central Luzon Media Association (CLMA) and the 13th Anniversary of the Samahan ng Mamamahayag ng Subic Bay Freeport (SMSF) on October 9, 2025, the initiative brought together volunteers from BCDA, Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), and Subic Bay locators who planted 200 native mangrove saplings
With BCDA’s participation since 2023, this effort reflects its commitment to sustainability and environmental preservation as a vital part of building future-ready cities and resilient communities.
“BCDA’s participation in projects like this reflects our long-term commitment to developing green cities that work in harmony with nature. Protecting mangrove ecosystems is essential to climate resilience and community well-being,” said BCDA President and CEO Joshua M. Bingcang. “Through collective action, we can ensure that the next generation inherits thriving environments and sustainable growth centers.”
Beyond serving as natural shields for our coastlines, mangrove forests help maintain marine species and preserve their habitat. Above the water, they filter pollutants, improve water quality, and act as carbon sinks. Mangroves also provide a natural cooling effect, supporting bird and wildlife habitats.
OIC Senior Vice President for Conversion and Development Engr. Mark P. Torres (leftmost) with BCDA officers planting native mangrove saplings. BCDA photo
BCDA Officer-in-Charge Senior Vice President for Conversion and Development Engr. Mark Torres led the BCDA team, along with SBMA Chairman and Administrator Engr. Eduardo Jose Aliño, the Subic Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Aboitiz Power, Eco Protect, Balibago Waterworks System, Inc., and members of CLMA and SMSF.
“For BCDA, this activity is part of our promise to build not only smart cities, but sustainable and livable communities. As we continue our projects across the island of Luzon, we know that true progress is only possible when we also take care of the environment that sustains us. This is our way of giving back — to nature and to future generations,” Engr. Mark Torres said.
Mr. Torres invited CLMA and SBMA to join BCDA’s future tree planting activities in Morong Discovery Park in the nearby Bataan, and New Clark City.
This initiative also reinforces BCDA’s vision of building green, sustainable, and resilient communities in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).