Clark back on the map of MICE destinations

Clark Freeport—State-run Clark Development Corp. expressed optimism that this Freeport will become a major MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions) destination with the opening of a new five-star hotel here.

Hilton Clark, a 308-room resort complex at the D’ Heights estate owned by Donggwang Clark Corp., has so far exceeded expectations since its soft opening on Dec. 30, 2021.

This augurs well for the vision of CDC to make Clark as a MICE and tourism destination in the Asia-Pacific region.

CDC president and chief executive Manuel Gaerlan said CDC aims to make the Freeport a “modern, sustainable aerotropolis and the preferred MICE and tourism destination in the Asia-Pacific region by year 2030.”

He emphasized the need to focus on the “reset, rebound and recover” strategy to boost Clark’s business climate amid the harsh after effects of the pandemic.

This means attracting more investments and opportunities that are geared towards fostering economic growth under his leadership.

DCC invested about P15 billion in the hotel resort and golf course complex on a 309-hectare hilly portion of the Freeport. It operates a separate hotel building at the commercial area.

DCC president Lee Seong Gi, in a courtesy call on Gaerlan, expressed gratitude to the state-owned firm for its support to the various developments in its leased properties.

Meanwhile, the opening of Hilton, a renowned brand worldwide known for outstanding service and top-notch amenities, is expected to heighten Clark’s economic performance in the coming years

Hilton Southeast Asia vice president for operations Paul Hutton said Hilton is “on a promising growth trajectory in the Philippines”. He is confident that “Clark is well-positioned to cater both business and leisure travelers within and outside the Philippines”.

Clark had 2,900 hotel rooms, supplemented by 111 dining facilities, 85 convention halls, and 27 facilities for wellness, golf, and other sports-related activities as of March 2020.