A BRAND new facility that will host the training and development activities of Philippine Army personnel at Training and Doctrine Command (Tradoc) in Camp O'Donnel Capas, Tarlac was inaugurated Friday, May 14.

Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Mark Villar and Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana led the inauguration of the building, which was built under the DND-DPWH Convergence Program on Strengthening and Expanding Military Readiness for National Security and Development, commonly known as Tatag ng Imprastraktura para sa Kapayapaan at Seguridad (Tikas) program.

DPWH-Central Luzon Director Roseller Tolentino said the three-story building, dubbed as Army Leadership Development and Education Center (Aldec) Phase I or Mabini Hall, is a modern training facility that is safe, comfortable, conducive to learning, aesthetically-pleasing, and accessible.

“It can accommodate the specific space and equipment needs of Tradoc trainees, trainers, and staff such as a multi-purpose hall that can accommodate a variety of events and training sessions, and offices that may provide administrative support spaces,” Tolentino said.

He added that a standby generator, air-conditioning units, and a water tank were included in the program to ensure that the training and education of the Army will remain uninterrupted.

Tolentino also said that the construction of Aldec Phase 1 is just one of the many programs implemented by the agency inside Camp O'Donell.

“Since 2019, the DPWH through the Tarlac 2nd District Engineering Office has implemented several projects inside Philippine Army’s premiere training center. These include the Tradoc Parade Ground, Classrooms and Mess Hall for the School for Candidate Soldier, a training pool, transient facility, and the improvement of Tradoc’s road networks,” he said.

Meanwhile, Tradoc commander Major General Cornelio H. Valencia Jr. welcomed the DPWH and DND officials who attended the inauguration and turnover activity that were carried out in strict compliance with the health and safety protocols.