P700-M condo buildings turned over to AFP

MANILA, Philippines — The Armed Forces of the Philippines on Wednesday received 12 medium-rise residential buildings worth P700 million from the Bases Conversion Development Authority (BCDA).

BCDA president Arnel Casanovahanded over symbolic wooden key to military chief Gen. Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. in a ceremony in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.

Defense Undesersecretary Honorio Azqueta and the three Major Services commanders also received the keys from Casanova.

BCDA, a government controlled corporation, transforms former military bases and properties into commercial centers under Republic Act 7227.

The buildings replicate former Joint US Military Assistance Group (Jusmag) housing facilities for the Philippine Army. The Jusmag area in Fort Bonifacio was disposed to private developers for a reported amount of P20 billion.

The fund was the earmarked for the AFP modernization program involving the purchase of new military assets such as warships, jet fighters and other equipment.

Philippine Army spokesperson Lt. Col. Noel Detoyato said in a state news report that the new housing facility intends is part of the program to boost the morale and welfare of Army soldiers.

Each of the 12 medium-rise buildings have 16 units. Ten of the buildings are located inside the Army headquarters, while the other two at the Philippine Air Force headquarters.