P360-M dorm for student-athletes to rise soon

Construction of the P360-million student-athlete dormitory at the National Academy of Sports (NAS) in New Clark City, Capas, Tarlac is set to break ground this year, marking a major step forward in enhancing facilities for young Filipino athletes.

A statement on Sunday by the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) said that the start of the construction of the five-story, 1,500-square-meter facility, which will house up to 400 student-athletes, was announced during NAS’ fifth founding anniversary celebration on 18 June.

The edifice, in partnership with the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), features 14 quad-sharing rooms for female students and 14 quad-sharing rooms for male students.

Further, the dormitory will include an atrium, dining hall, recreational spaces, a kitchen and dishwashing area, administrative offices, and laundry and utility rooms — ensuring a well-rounded and supportive living environment for the student-athletes.

“The presence of NAS in New Clark City reflects BCDA’s belief that investing in our youth is essential to nation-building,” BCDA president and CEO Joshua Bingcang said. “By equipping our young athletes with world-class resources and facilities, we are not only developing champions in sports — we are nurturing the future leaders of our country.”

The DBM, meanwhile, reaffirmed its commitment to NAS’ long-term vision.

“Our student-athletes deserve nothing less than a world-class environment where they can train harder, dream bigger, and shine brighter,” said DBM Secretary Amenah Pangandaman. “Thanks to BCDA, every part of this campus — from classrooms to courts — was built not only to inspire but to demonstrate our commitment to helping young athletes realize their full potential.”

Lawmakers, including Senators Sherwin Gatchalian and Bong Go, reaffirmed their support for the development of the National Academy of Sports during a recent visit to the campus, emphasizing the importance of education and infrastructure in nurturing the country’s athletic potential.

“The success of NAS is a victory for the Filipino youth,” said Senator Go, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Sports and co-author of Republic Act 11470, also known as the National Academy of Sports Act. “I remain deeply committed to initiatives that empower our youth to pursue excellence in both academics and athletics.”

In addition to the new dormitory, construction is also ongoing for a new gymnasium and dedicated gymnastics court. Currently, NAS is home to 270 student-athletes enrolled in various academic and athletic disciplines.

With the addition of new facilities, New Clark City continues to emerge as a premier destination for world-class sports infrastructure, shaping not just athletes but future champions of the nation.