Clark Development Corporation (CDC) is strengthening ties with South Korea’s Incheon Free Economic Zone (IFEZ) to enhance the Clark Freeport’s competitiveness in manufacturing and business process outsourcing (BPO). The partnership follows a benchmarking visit on April 11 and stems from engagements during the Philippine Investment Forum, held as part of the CREATE MORE Roadshow in South Korea.
CDC officials noted that the collaboration is designed to drive technology transfer, optimize supply chain linkages, and attract increased foreign direct investment to the Clark Freeport Zone. It will also create new opportunities for local firms to scale operations and access international markets.
Among the key initiatives under the partnership is the potential relocation of cosmetic and beauty product manufacturing operations from South Korea to Clark. This move is expected to support job creation, enhance raw material sourcing capabilities, and expand the region’s BPO service offerings.
The initiative is aligned with the Philippines’ broader investment promotion strategy under the CREATE MORE program, which offers enhanced fiscal incentives, preferential trade access, and an improved regulatory framework. Discussions were facilitated by the Office of the Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs, in coordination with the Department of Trade and Industry and the Board of Investments.
This strategic cooperation positions Clark as a growing hub for high-value manufacturing and global services in Southeast Asia.
(Source: Daily Tribune)
