MAKATI CITY —Clark Development Corporation (CDC) secured the support of Tourism Secretary Ma. Bernadita “Dita” Angara‑Mathay during a courtesy call held on July 15 at the Department of Tourism – Philippines central office here.
CDC President and CEO Atty. Agnes VST Devanadera led the Clark delegation in presenting updates on the 2026 JCI World Congress Clark, Philippines, which Clark will host on November 11–15.
The Congress will welcome more than 6,000 delegates from 120 countries and territories, positioning Clark as a global stage for youth leadership, innovation, and cultural exchange.
JCI Manila Congress Director Luis Angelo Sevilla outlined the five‑day program featuring leadership workshops, assemblies, cultural exchanges, and exhibitions designed to showcase Clark’s infrastructure and hospitality.
Clark’s assets underscore its readiness for global events. More than 1,200 locator companies employ 150,000 workers, anchoring its role as a premier investment hub. The destination welcomes 1.5 million visitors annually, supported by Clark International Airport’s 8‑million passenger capacity.
Tourism chief Angara‑Mathay underscored DOT’s support for Clark, framing its role in national promotion and coordinated growth.
“Clark has our full support and we’re grateful for the time you’ve taken to consult with us and share your plans. We will feature Clark prominently in the national campaign. Growth like this doesn’t happen by chance. It takes close coordination with our stakeholders and a genuine whole-of-government approach, so that Clark’s facilities, its workforce, and the communities around it all share in the gains as tourism and MICE continue to grow”, Tourism Secretary Angara-Mathay said.
Expanding MICE facilities, convention centers, hotels, and leisure complexes further strengthen its appeal, while tourism clusters in wellness, sports, education, and leisure position Clark as a multi‑sector gateway for growth and international gatherings.
Tourist attractions such as Aqua Planet, Clark Safari and Adventure Park, and golf estates complementing business tourism with lifestyle offerings.
The JCI World Congress is projected to boost hotel occupancy, transport demand, and community enterprises, reinforcing Clark’s role as a trusted venue for international gatherings. CDC emphasized that the event will not only showcase Clark’s infrastructure but also create opportunities for Metro Clark communities and SMEs to engage with global delegates.
The courtesy call was attended by members of the CDC senior management, Department of Tourism Region III Regional Director Richard Daenos, Hilton Clark Sun Valley Resort General Manager Denise Molintas, Director of Corporate Planning of Hann Resorts Andrea Sigua. Also present were General Manager of SMX Convention Center Clark Miguel Morato and JCI Senior Deputy Congress Director Richard Lim Jr.
CDC stressed that the partnership with DOT will enhance Clark’s visibility in national and international campaigns, while securing support for the JCI World Congress. The collaboration is expected to deliver measurable benefits to Pampanga and neighboring provinces, while positioning Clark as a premier destination for tourism, conferences, and global leadership exchanges.