Clark’s Creative Edge Powers Tourism Growth

CLARK FREEPORT — Creativity, collaboration, and enterprise are driving Clark’s rise as a tourism and events hub.

Clark Development Corporation (CDC) President and CEO Atty. Agnes VST Devanadera underscored this during the opening of the 18ᵗʰ Wedding Destination: Pampanga Grand Bridal Fair at SMX Convention Center Clark on August 14.

The three-day showcase gathers 100+ suppliers — venues, caterers, designers, florists, photographers, and event professionals — reflecting Central Luzon’s creative depth.

CDC President and CEO Atty. Agnes VST Devanadera delivers her message during the opening of Wedding Destination: Pampanga Year 18 Grand Bridal Fair at SMX Convention Center Clark, encouraging guests to “Come for the wedding, come for the destination … and come back for the memories that we have built.” (CDC Photo)

“Come for the wedding, come for the destination, and come back for the memories we build,” Devanadera said.

She stressed that synergy among local artists, furniture makers, designers, and entrepreneurs creates experiences that strengthen Clark and Pampanga’s appeal as destinations for weddings and milestone events.

Events and Concepts by Voltaire Zalamea Owner and Wedding Destination: Pampanga Grand Bridal Fair Curator Voltaire Zalamea delivers his message during the opening of the event’s 18th edition at SMX Convention Center Clark, highlighting the fair’s 18-year journey in promoting Pampanga’s wedding and events industry. (CDC Photo)
CDC President and CEO Atty. Agnes VST Devanadera (right) and Wedding Destination: Pampanga Grand Bridal Fair Curator Voltaire Zalamea (left) get a first look at the full exhibit following the opening of the 18th edition at SMX Convention Center Clark. (CDC Photo)

Now on its 18ᵗʰ year, Wedding Destination: Pampanga is the longest-running bridal fair in Central Luzon. Curator Voltaire Zalamea noted the event’s role in promoting regional talent and sustaining the wedding and events industry.

Clark’s events ecosystem is backed by strong tourism numbers: 8.94 million visitor arrivals and 572 MICE events in Q1 2026. The Freeport was also named Asia’s Leading Meetings and Conference Destination at the 2025 World Travel Awards.

CDC President and CEO Atty. Agnes VST Devanadera (right) and renowned Kapampangan designer Mich Viray (left) tour the various exhibits and offerings during Wedding Destination: Pampanga Year 18 Grand Bridal Fair at SMX Convention Center Clark. (CDC Photo)
CDC President and CEO Atty. Agnes VST Devanadera (second from left) and Wedding Destination: Pampanga Grand Bridal Fair Curator Voltaire Zalamea (leftmost) visit the Royce Hotel and Casino booth during the opening of the 18th edition at SMX Convention Center Clark. (CDC Photo)

Organized by Events and Concepts by Voltaire Zalamea, the fair runs until August 16 with free admission.