Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) President and Chief Executive Officer Vince Dizon on Thursday, May 27, urged the next administration to continue developing Clark and its surrounding areas for the benefit of the economy and the Filipino people.
Speaking at the Asia CEO Clark 2021 forum, Dizon expressed optimism over the opportunities bound for Clark as soon as the country is able to overcome the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic.
“Once we move past COVID-19 and move towards recovery, we’re very excited for the prospects in Clark. We hope that the next administration coming in next year will continue and fast-track all these developments for the benefit of all Filipinos, not just here in Central Luzon but everywhere throughout the country,” Dizon said in a statement.
Dizon, also the presidential adviser for flagship programs and projects, said construction activities in Clark, Pampanga and New Clark City in Tarlac are “all systems go” despite the challenges brought about by the pandemic.
He added that Clark is envisioned to become an international hub for businesses and investments, driven by the major expansion of the Clark International Airport.
The airport's new terminal building is slated to start operations towards the middle of the year.
"This is really what's going to drive the development not only in Clark, but in the entire region north of Metro Manila," Dizon said.
The Department of Finance said Clark is expected to be a major growth driver for Central and Northern Luzon. Before the pandemic, Central Luzon’s economy grew 5.6 percent in 2019, driven mainly by the manufacturing and construction sectors.