The 2024 RDC: Subic/Clark Business Conference successfully convened business leaders, local Chambers of Commerce, business associations, and stakeholders, aiming to foster collaboration and uncover new investment opportunities. Organized by OLACON Events and Regional Business Conferences, the event spotlighted the economic potential of the Subic/Clark region and facilitated the development of strategic alliances, contributing to regional business growth.
The conference featured a wide range of partners, including the Metro Angeles Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Inc., the Italian Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines, the Nordic Chamber Philippines, the French Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines, the German-Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Dutch Chamber of Commerce, British Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines, Pampanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and PCCI-Tarlac.
Key sponsors were pivotal to the success of the event. Terravision, as the platinum sponsor, delivered crucial support that was fundamental to the event’s execution. Gold sponsors, including Araneta City, Crif, Dusit Thani, Security Bank, and Stratbase, provided essential support for the conference.
SGV, the silver sponsor, made a significant contribution that greatly influenced the event’s success. Additional sponsors such as Iontek Power Solutions Corp, Sunsmart Solar Power Technology, Inc., Filinvest New Clark City, Filinvest Mimosa + Leisure City, Golf Ride Private Estate, and Italpinas Development Corporation also offered highly valued support.
Booth sponsors, including Organique, Airspeed, Parkway Corporate Center, and Alveo, added considerable value with their participation.
Furthermore, media partners such as Business Mirror, ThePhilBizNews, The Manila Times, Focus Philippines, Business World, Port Calls, Rising Tigers, The Philippine Star, and Ganda Negosyo were recognized for their efforts in broadening the event’s reach to a wider audience.
Speakers provided insightful discussions on the latest developments, investments, and projects in Clark. They highlighted the region's transformative infrastructure projects, including the expansion of the Clark International Airport and the development of the New Clark City, which is poised to become a major economic hub.
The discussions emphasized how these projects are set to enhance connectivity and attract both local and international investments. The speakers detailed how these infrastructure improvements are expected to drive regional growth, increase business opportunities, and support the economic revitalization of Clark.
The sessions underscored Clark's potential as a strategic investment destination, offering a favorable business environment supported by robust infrastructure and government incentives. The collective insights from the speakers painted a promising picture of Clark’s future, reinforcing its status as a key player in the Philippine economy.
ICCPI’s Executive Director Mr. Lorens Ziller delivered the opening remarks at the conference, setting the stage for an insightful discussion on the Subic-Clark economic corridor. He underscored the strategic significance of the Subic-Clark area as a pivotal region for economic development in the Philippines. Mr. Ziller articulated a vision for the region’s growth that aligns with the broader goals of regional economic integration and sustainable development. His remarks set an optimistic tone for the conference, encouraging participants to explore innovative solutions and strategic partnerships that will contribute to the continued success of the Subic-Clark area.
This was followed by a message of support from Usec. Joee Guilas, Undersecretary for Strategic Partnerships and Engagements of the Office of the Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs. He assured the audience of the government's commitment to the creation of an investment-friendly atmosphere in the country. Usec. Guilas pressed on with ongoing and future efforts under existing and expanded partnerships between government and the private sector.
MGen Delfin N. Lorenzana, Ret., Bases and Conversion Development Authority (BCDA) Chairman, provided a very strong message of support that outlined the tremendous progress to date and the bright future for the Subic-Clark economic corridor. Equally optimistic about the developments within the area and those yet to be witnessed in the future, MGen Lorenzana said that plans to enhance infrastructure and attract more investments are welcome.
He assured BCDA remains committed to responsible growth and an enabling business environment. The message of support communicated how continued collaboration by government agencies and private sector partners drives success within the Subic-Clark corridor, reinforcing the collective effort necessary for full economic potential.
Atty. Gisela Kalalo is the Executive Vice President of BCDA. She gave an overview of the future for New Clark City. She has spoken about infrastructural investments and development, like the New Clark City Sports Complex that is hosting international events, or the opening of residential and commercial spaces to accommodate growth. Atty. Kalalo further mentioned other significant projects that would be coming to the fore: completion of the New Clark City Airport and a new financial district, adding that these shall generate jobs and even spur economic growth in the region. Her presentation focused on the role New Clark City is playing in the advancement of national infrastructure and in fostering sustainable urban development.
Hon. Engr. Eduardo Jose L. Aliño, Chairman and Administrator of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority, gave an enlightening presentation on the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, positioning it as the prime investment and innovation hub. He strongly emphasized the key locational advantages of the Freeport Zone: world-class infrastructure, service support, and strategic international trade gateway. Engr. Aliño, however, cited new developments that gave a new sense of attractiveness to the Freeport Zone for investors.
He discussed the infrastructure connectivity projects-one being the port development and expansion of the logistics network. Also, innovation: partnerships with technology companies and the establishment of high-tech industry-specific economic zones. He expressed in his presentation that Subic Bay Freeport Zone is committed to providing an environment friendly for business enterprises to grow and advance technologically, thereby cementing its position as one of the best investment destinations.
Atty. Agnes Vst Devanadera, President and Chief Executive Officer of Clark Development Corporation (CDC), gave an elaborate presentation on sustaining the interest of investors in Clark. She presented a multi-pronged strategy that should ensure the investors' interest in the Clark area is constantly maintained and improved through increased infrastructure, business-friendly policies, and the strategic location in which it is situated.
Atty. Devanadera enumerated various projects that the CDC has undertaken to assist in attracting investments, such as the enhancement of the region's logistics and transport infrastructure and the development of new business areas. She was supported in her presentation by a video that flashed the business climate in Clark, successful projects, and testimonials from satisfied investors. The video presented Clark as an ideal investment location, fortifying its commitment to creating an enabling environment for businesses.
Clark Investors and Locators Association (CILA) President Dr. Francisco Villanueva Jr. gave a very engaging and straightforward presentation on investing in Clark as the model for economic growth and innovation. Dr. Villanueva underlined the historical background, culture, and competitive advantage of Clark, including sophisticated infrastructure, a supportive business climate, and pioneering projects that set it apart from other regions.
The insights of Dr. Villanueva showed that futuristic strategies and a strong economic framework make Clark one of the best examples of how targeted investment can spur sustainable growth and innovation.
Atty. Margaux A. Advincula, Head and Partner-In-Charge at SGV & Co. Clark, led a special Q&A session that offered participants a unique opportunity to engage directly with key figures involved in the development of the Clark and Subic regions. Joined by Hon. Engr. Eduardo Jose L. Aliño, Chairman and Administrator of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), Atty. Agnes Vst Devanadera, President and CEO of Clark Development Corporation (CDC), Atty. Gisela Kalalo, Executive Vice President of the Bases Conversion Development Authority (BCDA), and Dr. Francisco Villanueva Jr., President of the Clark Investors and Locators Association (CILA), the session provided a platform for in-depth discussions on various topics related to investment and development.
During the Q&A, the panelists addressed a range of questions from the audience, offering insights into their respective areas of expertise. Engr. Aliño discussed the strategic advantages of the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, while Atty. Devanadera elaborated on CDC's efforts to sustain investor interest in Clark. Atty. Kalalo shared updates on New Clark City’s progress, and Dr. Villanueva highlighted Clark’s role as a model for economic growth and innovation. The session was marked by lively exchanges and provided valuable perspectives on how these regions are evolving to meet the demands of modern investment and business development.
Following a fruitful morning, the delegates connected over lunch and explored the booths.
Atty. Roberto Cecilio O. Lim, Undersecretary for Aviation and Airports at the Department of Transportation (DOTr), delivered a detailed presentation on modernizing development through aviation and airports. He focused on the critical role that advancements in aviation infrastructure play in driving economic growth and enhancing connectivity across the Philippines.
Atty. Lim highlighted ongoing projects aimed at upgrading airport facilities and expanding air transport networks. He discussed the importance of modernizing existing airports and constructing new ones to accommodate increasing passenger and cargo traffic. His presentation underscored how these improvements are integral to supporting regional development, facilitating business operations, and boosting tourism. By investing in advanced aviation technologies and infrastructure, Atty. Lim emphasized the government's commitment to creating a more efficient and competitive transportation sector that will propel the nation's economic progress.
EnP Melissa D. Feliciano, MNSA, Chief Strategist and Urban Planner at Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC), presented a vision to transform Clark into the leading global civil aviation logistics hub for the Philippines. During her speech, EnP Feliciano discussed the strategic activities being carried out in positioning Clark to be amongst the participants in the global aviation and logistics markets.
She talked about the continuous development of Clark International Airport and its peripherals, citing how these projects conformed to increasing the capacity and efficiency of the said airport. EnP Feliciano discussed how advanced logistics facilities would blend with state-of-the-art technology and principles in sustainable urban planning that will enable Clark to answer the demands of international trade and transport.
Mr. Michael Ted Macapagal, PNR Chairman, gave an engaging talk about rail network expansion and its primary projects that could stir regional development. He showed a video depicting current and future projects that the said expansion is supposed to undertake. It also described in the video the strategic implications of such rail developments, adding they would facilitate connectivity between not only large urban centers but also poorly served areas.
Macapagal also explained the projects shown in the video, citing their essence in improving transportation efficiency, travel time, and enhancing economic activities across the country. The statement also underlined the commitment of PNR to modernize the railway system, pegging regional development with the opening of new avenues for growth and investment in the country.
Mr. Germaine Marko Pascual, Executive Director of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry-Tarlac (PCCI-Tarlac), gave a very interactive and enticing presentation on how to make the business ecosystem in Tarlac thrive. He caught everybody's attention by talking about Tarlac's rich culture and unique products interestingly that showed the distinct identity of the province.
Aside from cultural aspects, Pascual was able to give a rundown of the developments and achievements that have built up Tarlac's developing business landscape. He has mentioned recent infrastructure projects, investment opportunities, and the cooperative efforts from local businesses due to government initiatives. Pascual's presentation underlined Tarlac's potential as an emerging hub for economic activity by showing the province's commitment to nurturing a dynamic and supportive environment wherein businesses can grow.
Ar. Romolo V. Nati, Executive Chairman and CEO of Italpinas Development Corporation, gave a focused presentation on sustainable development in strategic locations. Emphasis was given to integrating sustainable practices into real estate and urban planning, particularly in the areas set to boom for growth and development. Ar. Nati presented how Italpinas Development Corporation is committed to building eco-friendly, energy-efficient structures that merge with the environment.
He talked of major projects wherein these principles have been applied successfully and how such appropriate designs drive economic value with assured environmental stewardship. His presentation underlined strategic and sustainable development that improves the long-term viability and attractiveness of emergent locations and further cements Italpinas as the Philippine's leading developer of green real estate.
During the Organiqué Wellness Segment, the company engaged guests in an energizing session focused on health and well-being. Attendees were invited to participate in a series of light stretching exercises, guided by wellness experts, to rejuvenate their minds and bodies. The segment emphasized the importance of integrating simple wellness practices into daily routines, helping guests to relax and refocus amidst the event’s busy schedule.
A special message from Consul Enunina V. Mangio, President of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines, Inc., captured the spirit of event segment through cooperation and expansion. In her speech, Consul Mangio pointed out the clear importance of the Chamber in rallying together business sectors toward an environment where economic growth may set in.
She emphasized how the Chamber has continued with its service to the various business entities across the country, especially on how to sail through the challenges of a modern economic world. In this light, the message from Consul Mangio was that strategic partnership and innovation are keys to progress, reinforcing the commitment of the Chamber toward being a key partner for any business looking to thrive in the Philippines.
For the panel "Driving Infrastructure Investments in the Luzon Economic Corridor," moderator and ICCPI Executive Director Mr. Lorens Ziller gathered key industry leaders to talk about the future of port and logistics operations in Subic and Clark. For his part, Reghis Christian Romero IV, Executive Vice-President of Harbour Centre Port Terminal Subic, Inc., cited infrastructure investments that would help improve efficiency and further increase capacity of the Subic Port to handle more cargo volume as a regional trading hub. On his part, ICTSI Philippine Cluster Commercial Director Mr. Mikkel Puyat said that global connectivity and integration with the digital platforms would establish the country's position in the global supply chain. For her part, PEZA Deputy Director General for Policy and Planning Ms. Anidelle Joy M. Alguso defined strategic plans for the Subic-Clark corridor along with other economic zones to be developed that would stimulate more foreign direct investment and foster industrial development.
The recently wrapped up 2024 RDC: Subic/Clark Business Conference indeed proved to be very successful, with participants establishing key linkages and identifying viable investment opportunities. Given that the event showcased the region's economic potentials, this year's successful run is foreseen to be topped by even more collaborations and expansions in the next year's conference.
Mikaela Gabrielle de Castro
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