May 29, 2019. It was 30 minutes past seven o’clock in the morning when BluPrint arrived at the makeshift entrance gate of the National Government Administrative Center (NGAC). Looming over the makeshift guardhouse to our right was the colossal metal and concrete Aquatic Center. To our left, a large black signboard posted the number “94” in meter-high, bold white fonts. Underneath the number is written: “Days left to August 31, 2019.”
The signboard means that the P5-billion New Clark City Sports Complex will be turned over two months ahead of the original date in October. The early turnover gives the Philippine hosts three full months to test and prep the facilities before the 30th Southeast Asian Games takes place from November 30 to December 10.
The 40-hectare New Clark City Sports Complex makes up part of the 250-hectare NGAC, located in the 9,450-hectare New Clark City in Capas, Tarlac.Groundbreaking for the New Clark City Phase 1A, which includes the NGAC and sports complex, took place 23 January 2018. Masterplanned by AECOM, Phase 1A is estimated to cost P13.16 billion.According to the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), the NGAC will contain the “back-up” offices of various government agencies to ensure continuous business operations and services for the people in case of disasters or national calamities. Six more buildings will be built before the end of 2020.The Aquatic Center’s 90.25-meter-long roof mimics the diamond pattern of capíz windows in traditional Filipino houses. The pattern also recalls Philippine fish pen weaves. 20% of the roof is made of translucent uPVC panels.An aerial view of the Athlete’s Village. The series of five-story buildings designed by Budji+Royal Architecture+Design has 525 units, 310 of which are PWD-friendly.The Village also offers gym amenities, a 24/7 dining hall, conference rooms, and recreational facilities.On the edge of the NGAC Phase 1A is the Cutcut River that stretches 1.4 kilometers. During our visit, the river is being dredged and widened to accommodate a thousand-year flood.
Read the full-length article and see more exclusive photos on the sports complex, the Aquatic Center, and the Athletic Stadium in BluPrint Volume 2 2019.
