The Philippines is set to further develop the Clark Special Economic Zone (SEZ) with initiatives inspired by Singapore. Key projects include affordable housing modeled after Singapore’s HDB flats (public housing) and transforming the existing civil aviation complex into a global hub similar to Changi Airport.
During a four-day visit, Singapore Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan discussed collaboration opportunities with Filipino officials. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. envisions New Clark City, a 9,450-ha community within the SEZ, as the country’s first smart city, inspired by Singapore’s infrastructure.
Currently, 16 Singaporean firms operate in Clark, employing over 1,600 people with investments totaling USD 139.92 million. The Philippines plans to build an affordable housing complex in Clark, with designs based on Singapore’s Housing Board.
The Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) aims to develop the 2,300-ha civil aviation complex into a global hub, including sports and entertainment facilities, and an agricultural trade hub to support food security. Operated by a consortium led by Changi Airports International, the airport is under a 25-year concession.
(Source: The Straits Times)
