The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) is set to pilot a smart electric shuttle transport system inside Camp John Hay, in partnership with South Korea-based DeviceDesign Co. Ltd. and the Cordillera Basic Sector Transport Cooperative (CBSTC), to showcase the economic and environmental potential of e-mobility in a tourism zone.

A memorandum of understanding was signed June 24 between the BCDA, its subsidiary John Hay Management Corp. (JHMC), DeviceDesign, and CBSTC to roll out a six-month demonstration run of the “John Hay Loop,” an intra-zone transport project that could pave the way for broader smart mobility adoption in the region.

Set to begin July 15, the trial will deploy three electric vehicles on a pre-defined route within Camp John Hay. No fare will be charged during the pilot period, which will focus on improving accessibility and traffic management while collecting data on operational performance, ridership, and commuter experience.

“Through this project, the BCDA seeks to show its commitment to help Baguio City and the community in addressing emerging urban problems, while also fulfilling our promise to take care of the environment and Baguio’s natural charm and beauty,” said BCDA President and CEO Joshua Bingcang.

“This also exhibits BCDA’s innovation-driven outlook for its properties – our willingness to embrace climate-resilient mobility solutions to drive sustainable development, enhance efficiency, and create smarter, future-ready communities.”

The project’s viability will be assessed through real-time performance tracking and user feedback, which will inform plans for a long-term system that could eventually expand to other BCDA-managed economic zones.

CBSTC, the local transport partner, will operate the shuttle using advanced electric vehicle models suited for the high-altitude, rugged terrain of Baguio. CBSTC CEO Jude Wal said these EVs are suitable for deployment in other parts of the Cordillera region.

“We are very thankful that the BCDA thought of this loop. We believe that if we have an efficient and effective public transportation system, that (will stimulate) the economy of a place, and we share this vision with the BCDA,” Wal said.

DeviceDesign President and CEO Young Guk Cho emphasized the project’s role in demonstrating smart city innovation.

“We believe that Camp John Hay can become a model for smart and green city development in the Philippines. This project is not just about technology, it’s about improving life and building a brighter future for the people of Baguio and beyond,” he said.

The John Hay Loop aligns with global sustainability frameworks, particularly the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals Nos. 11 and 13, which advocate for sustainable cities and climate action.

If successful, the model could be replicated in other BCDA-managed estates, reinforcing the agency’s role as a key player in smart infrastructure development while stimulating local economies through modern mobility.