As far as I can remember over 2 decades ago, the mere mention of Clark instantly brought visions of young, American soldiers in fatigue uniforms, not to mention shopping arcades, cafeterias, teen centers, riding stables and other concessions that were typically associated with the land of promise and honey.
For many years Clark Air Base was the largest military facility Base outside mainland USA, until the US Bases Agreement expired in 1991 and it reverted to the Philippine government.
Following the departure of the American forces, we fathomed it certainly was time to revisit, to reminisce on history and likewise to discover what has become of Clark.
Clark is part of Pampanga province. It is bounded on the north by Tarlac and Nueva Ecija, Bulacan on the east, on the south by Bataan and on the west by Zambales. Almost the size of Singapore, it is a natural entry point to the Asia Pacific Region such as Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan, Korea and other key points in Asia.
We boarded a Cebu Pacific (CEB) Airbus which flies directly to Clark thrice weekly. Upon arrival at the International Airport renamed Diosdado Macapagal, we proceeded to Hotel Vida, the newest deluxe hotel were refreshing drinks served by efficient staff welcomed us.
The elegantly furnished rooms were more than superb. Each one equipped with a top-of-the-range plasma screen and a full stocked bar. Other facilities include a well designed swimming pool, gym and spa, business center and functions rooms.
We visited the Clark Development Corporation which was established in order to manage and operate the 2, 200 hectares allotted for the Clark Freeport Zone. Bernardo Angeles Jr, Assistant Vice president for Investment Promotions extensively explained its ultimate vision that will surely spur growth, progress and generate more investments and productive employment thus confirming our expectations that the once military base is now a sprawling cosmopolitan metropolis that offers many places of interest and a host of events and activities accessible to a wide spectrum of tourists and visitors.
Through the years Clark has established itself as highly urbanized and has been at the threshold of full social and economic development. Advancement in communication technology coupled with modern highway has tremendously improved trade and commerce. Both the industrial and tourism sectors have become major contributors to its growth and development.
Historical landmarks include the Kamikaze West Airfield and Marker and History . This is a commemorative memorial with a cave entrance showing the birthplace and hiding place of the first Kamikaze suicide bombers of World War ll.
Capt. Colin P. Kelly Monument and History –Designated the first war hero, he bravely carried out his bombing mission, and successfully took out the Japanese light cruiser Ashigara. While returning to Clark, their plane was followed and attacked by Japanese fighters which set the bomber on fire. Kelly then bravely attempted to save his plane by performing a belly landing just outside of the Clark Air Base but crashed and died in the process.
The site of former Kelly Theater was built in 1947 and rebuilt in 1953. This was where President Manuel Roxas gave his last speech before succumbing to cardiac arrest in April 1948. A hotel now stands at the site.
Goddess/Buddha of Peace Shrine was built in 1998 as a symbol to encourage peace and goodwill among nations. The shrine includes a large statue and black memorial plaque in English and Japanese.
Clark offers its parks and open spaces to the public for outdoor events, social gatherings, camping, picnic, sports and leisure activities. One such annual event designed to draw visitors is the Hot-Air Balloon Fiesta which offers the majestic sight of colorful and massive balloons floating in the sky and piloted by adventure seeking enthusiasts.
The Nayong Pilipino sa Clark is a cultural park that highlights the rich heritage of Northern Philippines. It showcases a walk-through of Philippine history depicted through replica homes of former revolutionary leaders and native villages, as well as miniature replicas of scenic and historic landmarks.
Mimosa Golf and Country Club offers a 36-hole course at its Acacia View and Lake View courses, with ample trees and fairways, shimmering lakes, bunkers and well maintained greens. The Fontana Leisure Park meanwhile has the 9-hole Pitch and Putt Golf Course which is ideal for developing the skills of beginners.
And let’s not forget Duty Free shopping which can be quite an experience as there are eleven shops to choose from. Aside from that there is a wide range of bars and restaurants that operate within the Freeport Zone.
The “Next Frontier” of Clark is the vast 10, 000 hectare expanse of land adjoining the Clark Freeport Zone. It is prepared to be a means of growth for Central Luzon and a major contributor to the country’s economy. The infrastructures that will soon rise will include eco-tourism attractions, tourism and institutional facilities and agro-industrial related enterprises.
With the way it is developing Clark will surely be the Philippines next symbol of economic turnaround and the future premier gateway to the world. ?