GSC-Clark flights pushed to boost linkages

CLARK FREEPORT, Pampanga -- Members of the Metro Clark Advisory Council (MCAC) are asking various airlines companies here to mount flights between this Freeport and General Santos City (GenSan) to allow more possible opportunities for investments, trade, and tourism for both areas.

This was gleaned in a resolution passed by MCAC officials chaired by Clark Development Corporation (CDC)

President and Chief Executive Officer Noel Manankil, and co-chaired by Mabalacat City Mayor Crisostomo Garbo during their regular meeting here on Monday. MCAC members include Angeles City Mayor Carmelo Lazatin, Jr., Capas, Tarlac Mayor Reynaldo Catacutan, Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Jose Antonio Feliciano, and Porac Mayor Jaime Capil. In the resolution, the MCAC underscored the importance of connectivity of Clark airport to major points of tourism and commerce in the country, while citing the development of the new passenger terminal here. Prior to the resolution of MCAC, three chambers of Pampanga also expressed support and enthusiasm in the creation of a direct flight between Clark and GenSan. This is through a joint resolution passed by the Pampanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (PamCham), Metro Angeles Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (MACCII), and the Clark Investors and Locators Association (CILA). The joint resolution of the three chambers cited that the collaboration between Metro Clark area and South Cotabato will help to usher in more economic and cultural impact on various industries here. By supporting the creation of the said flight, it is also expected to provide alternate entry and exit port for local and international tourists who want to travel from Gen-San to Clark and vice-versa. This is also supposed to strengthen economic ties that will benefit local and foreign investors in both areas. It can be recalled that during the visit here of local government officials, private sector representatives, and businessmen from General Santos City, they also cited the suitability of this Freeport as an investment hub. In September last year, Manankil and General Santos City Mayor Ronnel Rivera signed a declaration of joint intent to strengthen linkages between GenSan and this Freeport through the promotion of air connectivity, organization of trade, and business mission for tourism and investments, among others. (PNA)