Photo by: The BCDA Group
MANILA, Philippines — The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) and Japanese mobility technology firm Zip Infrastructure Co. Ltd. are moving forward with plans to introduce a self-driving cable car system in Camp John Hay in Baguio City.
BCDA President and CEO Engr. Joshua M. Bingcang and Zip Infrastructure President and CEO Takamasa Suchi signed a Memorandum of Cooperation (MOC) in Tokyo on Oct. 5 to establish a framework for further developing the proposed Zippar pilot project.
The agreement brings the proposed transport system closer to the feasibility stage, with both parties set to explore the technical and commercial requirements of the project.
Photo by: The BCDA Group
Under the MOC, BCDA and Zip Infrastructure will work on feasibility studies, technical requirements, investment and financing arrangements, as well as the possible structure of a future joint venture.
The proposed Zippar system is a Japanese self-driven cable car technology being studied as a potential mobility solution within Camp John Hay.
The signing was witnessed by John Hay Management Corp. President and CEO Manjit T. Singh Reandi and Zip Infrastructure Representative Director and Chief Operating Officer Mario Rebonquin.
Philippine Embassy in Japan Deputy Chief of Mission Christian L. De Jesus, DTI Philippine Trade and Investment Center Tokyo Commercial Counsellor Froilan Emil Pamintuan and BCDA Director Dante Liban also attended the signing.
The initiative builds on cooperation between BCDA and Zip Infrastructure that started in 2024 to assess the viability of deploying the self-driving cable car technology in Camp John Hay.
For BCDA, the proposed pilot project could introduce an alternative mobility system in the 246-hectare former US military facility, which has been transformed into a tourism, business and leisure destination.
The project also reflects efforts to explore technology-driven transport solutions that could improve mobility while supporting the continued development of Camp John Hay.
Further feasibility and technical studies will determine the project’s viability, investment requirements and potential partnership structure before a joint venture is considered.
If pursued, the Zippar project could position Camp John Hay as a testing ground for an emerging Japanese mobility technology and add another layer to Baguio’s efforts to develop more innovative and sustainable transportation options.