The success of the recently concluded MICE Conference (MICECON) 2024 highlights Clark Freeport Zone as a forerunner in the MICE industry.
Held at the SMX Convention Clark from July 10 to 12, 820 delegates from various sectors and academe attended the convention, making MICECON the biggest gathering of MICE professionals in the country.
In the three-day event, the attendees participated in the focused discussions held simultaneously and facilitated by speakers who are experts in their respective fields. In addition, the participants gained a diversified conference experience from their accommodations, the main conference venue, to the unique and themed social functions, and creative dress codes for the sessions. These activities emphasized that Clark is more than just a top tourist destination; it is also a top MICE destination.
“MICECON offered an unparalleled platform for attendees to immerse themselves in global trends in business meetings, discover the exceptional facilities in Clark, and forge meaningful connections with MICE experts,” said Tourism Promotions Board Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles. “The return of MICECON to the Clark Freeport Zone marks a momentous occasion. Following the success of its 2014 hosting, Clark has once again emerged as an ideal venue due to its strategic accessibility, state-of-the-art conference facilities, and the positive impact this event will have on the region.”
Clark won the bid to host MICECON 2024 due to its accessibility, readiness of conference venues, and its capacity to attract investments and stimulate economic growth.
During the event, Clark Development Corporation (CDC) President and CEO Atty. Agnes VST Devanadera cited the developments that will position Clark as a premier MICE destination, including the construction of three new hotels, specifically the expansion plans of Hilton Clark Sun Valley Resort, Wyndham Destinations, and Hann Casino Resort, to add to Clark’s existing room count of around 4,100 rooms, the allocation of two hectares of land for the expansion of the SMX Convention Center, as well as the development of business venues within Clark’s existing hotels. This includes a five-hectare plot in CDC for the construction of a convention and cultural center, which is expected to have a maximum capacity of 15,000, the continued expansion of Clark International Airport’s flight portfolio, and the continued work on a train system connecting Clark to its adjacent regions, whose first phase will be completed by 2026.
Devadanera also recognized the national government’s support and emphasized the synergy of the key players in Clark. “We have 1,153 locators and 139,000 workers in the zone. All (of) them contribute to making Clark ready as a MICE destination,” she added.
Nograles expressed her heartfelt gratitude to Devanadera and the CDC team for being the most supportive host city for MICECON 2024. She also underscored the five-year MICE strategic management plan, which is a pivotal step and pioneering guide for enhancing the Clark Freeport Zone’s reputation as a top MICE destination in the Asia-Pacific region.
Data presented by Grand View Research values the Asia-Pacific MICE market at $183.47 billion last year and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 10 percent up to 2030.
Taking note of the MICE industry’s potential growth, Nograles said, “We will establish the Philippines as a premier MICE destination known for its world-class experiences, top-notch facilities, and unparalleled hospitality.”