Japan’s Zip to study cable car system in Baguio’s Camp John Hay

Japan’s Zip Infrastructure is set to study the feasibility of a cable car system in Camp John Hay in Baguio, as part of an agreement inked with the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) which owns the property.

Under a memorandum of understanding (MOU) inked with Zip Infrastructure, the Japanese firm will prepare a feasibility study for the operations and maintenance of its self-driven cable car system Zippar in Camp John Hay.

“This technology promises to enhance urban mobility, reduce traffic congestion, and promote environmentally sustainable transportation solutions,” BCDA president and chief executive officer Joshua Bingcang said in an emailed statement.

“By leveraging Zippar technology, we can create a seamless and efficient transport system within Camp John Hay making it more accessible and enjoyable for residents and visitors alike,” he added.

The MOU was signed by Bingcang and Zip Infrastructure chief executive officer Takamasa Suchi, with Transportation secretary Jaime Bautista and Zip Infrastructure director and head of business development Mario Ian Carlos Ferido Rebonquin as witnesses.

Based on its website, Zip Infrastructure is involved in the manufacture and sale of transportation equipment, civil engineering and construction work,  land transportation and turning of automobiles,  and automobile freight transportation, among others.

This comes as the economic managers of the Marcos administration — including Bingcang and Bautista —  have met with Japanese firms  in a bid to have them expand their presence in the Philippines.

 To recall, the Supreme Court (SC) earlier this year upheld an arbitral ruling which ordered the Camp John Hay Development Corp. to vacate a portion of the John Hay Special Economic Zone which it leased from the BCDA, and turn it over to the government agency.

The BCDA over the weekend said it also signed an MOU which covers a three-year partnership with the Organization of Public-Private Partnerships Promotion Support (OPPS) of Japan to facilitate the promotion of investment opportunities in New Clark City and other BCDA economic zones to Japanese firms.

“OPPS as a steadfast advocate for BCDA’s projects, and leveraging on your Japanese network and expertise to attract investment and foster international partnerships will be crucial and invaluable in raising awareness about the opportunities available in New Clark City and in facilitating collaborations with global stakeholders,” Bingcang said.—RF, GMA Integrated News