BCDA rejects SM proposal

The Bases Conversion Development Authority (BCDA) has rejected the proposal of the SM Group to put up an SM Mall near the Salakot entrance of Clark Air Base.

In a meeting last Dec. 19, nine members of the BCDA board voted to reject the SM project on two grounds.

The board members noted that the BCDA would still incur some infrastructure cost for the proposed SM Mall and that "the infrastructure cost is grossly disproportionate to the economic gain under the SM proposal."

The SM Group normally allocates about P500 million to construct a new mall, providing employment opportunities and other economic benefits.

It was also noted that the proposed site of SM would "prevent the development of the land for its intended use, which is to create a growth corridor."

BCDA president Rufo Colayco from the very start had expressed misgivings about the proposed site, pointing out that it would create unwanted traffic along the already congested MacArthur Highway.

Colayco had instead offered the Centennial Expo site which is located about six kilometers inside Clark. However, SM appeared hesitant about the alternative site since it would not be accessible to public transportation.

Colayco then offered to open the Mabalacat entrance to the public and public transportation would be allowed to enter the currently secure air base facility.

Local businesses beside Clark had also expressed opposition to the planned SM mall, fearing that the retail giant would kill their small businesses.