CLARK FREEPORT ZONE (PIA) — The Clark Development Corporation (CDC) is expanding partnerships with technology and service providers to develop solutions for food and industrial waste, as the Freeport strengthens its position as a major investment, employment, and tourism hub.
CDC President and Chief Executive Officer Agnes Devanadera said the growing number of businesses and visitors in Clark requires a stronger ecosystem of services, particularly those that can transform waste into resources.
“We need more firms that turn industrial waste into resources. That is how we complete the ecosystem of services in Clark,” Devanadera said during the Eco-Governance Summit held recently.
She cited Clark-based SRCI Manufacturing Inc. for its recycling of electronic waste into usable materials, demonstrating how technology can support both environmental sustainability and industrial activity.
The CDC chief also pointed to food waste as an emerging concern with the continued expansion of Clark’s hospitality sector.
“Food waste is not ordinary waste. It is a growing problem we must address with new technology and service providers,” she said.
The initiative comes as the Marcos Jr. administration pushes for stronger economic zones, increased investments, job creation, and the development of technology-driven industries that can improve the country’s position in global value chains.
In his 2026 State of the Nation Address, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. emphasized the role of economic zones in translating investments into actual economic activity.
“Our productive ecozones lay down the fertile groundwork that brings these investments into actual fruition, posting consistent growth rates over the past three years,” he said.
The President also noted the need to pursue strategic and emerging industries in areas such as advanced manufacturing, technology, and logistics to strengthen the country’s global competitiveness.
Clark’s economic base reflects this national development direction. As of December 31, 2025, the Freeport hosted 1,285 locator companies employing 151,593 workers, with actual investments reaching ₱372 billion.
Its expanding economic activity is also reflected in its export and tourism performance, with US$1.48 billion in exports recorded in the first quarter of 2026, alongside 1.51 million overnight guests and 29.75 million same-day visitors in 2025.
Clark International Airport, meanwhile, served 1.64 million passengers during the first half of 2026, with passenger volume projected to reach 3.1 million by year-end.
With business and tourism activity continuing to grow, Devanadera said partnerships with technology providers will be crucial in ensuring that Clark’s development is supported by efficient and sustainable waste-management systems, helping make economic growth more resilient and environmentally responsible. (CLJD/MJSC, PIA Region 3-Pampanga)
