Clark eyeing modern infra

CLARK FREEPORT, Pampanga — The government is rolling out an ambitious plan to modernize the country’s infrastructure, and at the center of these developments is Clark.

The state-owned Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) is looking to establish connectivity – not just in terms of network infrastructure, but more so on transport hubs.

Under the Build, Build, Build thrust of the administration, billions will be spent to realize the vision of making theClark International Airport (CRK) Asia’s next premier gateway. One of the big-ticket projects of the BCDA, CRK will complement other initiatives to decongest Metro Manila, said Noel Tulabut, Clark communications manager.

The more than 100,000-square meter world class terminal broke ground in December last year, and is expected to accommodate an additional eight million passengers annually.

Also part of BCDA’s priority projects are the 71-kilometer Subic-Clark Railway connecting the Subic Seaport to the CRK, and the construction of the 9,450-hectare New Clark City, poised be the country’s first smart, resilient, and inclusive city. New Clark City will be a new metropolis that will rise in the Clark Special Economic Zone.

Last February 12, BCDA and the Japan Overseas Infrastructure Investment Corporation for Transport and Urban Development (JOIN) signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with Surbana Jurong of Singapore for the full implementation of the New Clark City.

Clark Development Corp president Noel Manankil also said that the city will feature mixed-use real estate development, an agro-industrial park, and a food processing terminal. These will translate to increased investments that will benefit not only Clark, but the region as well.