THE state-run Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) on Thursday said it has together with another government-owned and -controlled corporation to develop pharmaceutical ecozones in Clark.
On March 25, BCDA President and CEO Joshua Bingcang signed an agreement with Philippine Pharma Procurement Inc. (PPPI) President and CEO Maria Blanca Kim Lokin to conduct studies on lessening the country’s reliance on imported medicines by creating a dedicated ecosystem for pharmaceutical manufacturing, research and distribution.
PPPI — formerly PITC Pharma Inc., a subsidiary of the Philippine International Trading Corp. and an affiliate of the National Development Co. — is tasked to provide low-cost but high-quality medicine to Filipinos.
The project will also explore strategic business opportunities in the Clark Civil Aviation Complex in Pampanga and New Clark City in Tarlac, the BCDA said, adding that it aims to stimulate industrial development in these areas, particularly in pharmaceutical manufacturing, medical equipment production, cold chain logistics, and research and development (R&D).
The study will start with site identification, locating optimal areas to build manufacturing plants and R&D laboratories.
It will also pursue logistical integration, leveraging Clark International Airport to ensure rapid, temperature-controlled transit of pharmaceutical products.
It will likewise address incentive frameworks, creating a competitive environment to attract global pharmaceutical giants while supporting local drug manufacturers.
“By positioning Clark as an integral part of the country’s health care ecosystem, we are improving access to medicines, fostering innovation and enhancing the nation’s capacity to meet health care needs. At the same time, this initiative supports high-value job creation, attracts investment and stimulates inclusive and sustainable growth for the Philippines,” Bingcang said in a statement.
“This signing bridges the gap between logistics and manufacturing,” Lokin said. “By studying the feasibility of specialized pharma-ecozones, we are not just building warehouses; we are creating a high-tech environment where research, production and global distribution can thrive in one place.”
