House panel commends CDC for Clark’s Asia MICE award
QUEZON CITY — The House of Representatives Committee on Tourism has adopted a resolution commending the Clark Development Corporation (CDC). The measure recognizes the Clark Freeport Zone’s distinction as Asia’s Leading Meetings and Conference Destination at the 32nd World Travel Awards (WTA) for Asia and Oceania held in Hong Kong.
House Resolution No. 394, filed and sponsored by Pampanga 1st District Rep. Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin, Jr., is now set for plenary discussion. The measure cites Clark’s expanding Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) infrastructure and its emergence as one of the region’s most competitive venues for international events.
CDC President and CEO Atty. Agnes VST Devanadera welcomed the commendation, calling it a boost to Clark’s initiatives to strengthen its position in the global MICE landscape.
“We would like to thank Cong. Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin Jr. for sponsoring the resolution. This was the first time that the Philippines was ever recognized and awarded [for Asia’s Leading Meetings and Conference Destination], and for that, we are grateful,” Devanadera said.
She also presented the WTA trophy to committee members and guests, thanking the Department of Tourism – Philippines for its continued support of Clark’s MICE programs.
Committee chair and Romblon Rep. Eliandro Jesus F. Madrona congratulated CDC on the milestone, saying: “You’re one among the pillars of the tourism industry.”
Lawmakers noted in the resolution that “the Clark Freeport Zone has been recognized for its expanding Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) infrastructure” and that its recognition as Asia’s Leading Meetings and Conference Destination “marks its emergence as a global destination.”
The measure also cited the successful hosting of the Philippine MICE Conference (MICECON 2024) at SMX Convention Center Clark, which was “successfully hosted through the concerted efforts of the Clark Development Corporation, the Tourism Promotions Board Philippines, and various public and private sector partners.”
Clark’s award was made possible through the efforts of CDC, DOT Region 3, and tourism stakeholders in the Freeport. The zone bested regional heavyweights including Singapore, Bangkok, Tokyo, and Beijing.
Clark was likewise included in another commendation adopted at the committee meeting. House Resolution No. 420, authored by Sorsogon First District Rep. Bernadette Escudero, seeks to recognize the Philippine tourism sector’s six wins at the WTA, including Clark’s distinction as Asia’s Leading Meetings and Conference Destination.
CDC officials present at the committee meeting included Director Atty. Helen Nicolette Henson; VP for Legal Affairs Atty. Gloria Victoria Yap-Taruc; VP for Security Services PMGen. Lina Sarmiento (Ret.); Litigation Division Manager Atty. Azee Arcilla; Tourism Promotions Division Manager Elenita Lorenzo; and Communications Division Manager Astrud Aguinaldo. #