CLARK FREEPORT ZONE, PAMPANGA - The Tourism Promotions Board Philippines (TPB) presented Clark's impressive tourism and investment portfolio to Chinese travelers and industry stakeholders at the Intercontinental Xiamen on August 19, 2026, positioning the premier gateway as a top destination for leisure, study, and MICE experiences. The pitch highlighted Clark's remarkable performance metrics, including 32.6 million visitors, PHP 43.47 billion in tourism spending, and PHP 372 billion in investments. With nearly 3,000 MICE events hosted, over 151,000 jobs sustained, and more than 1,200 active locators, Clark's strategic value as an economic powerhouse was fully showcased. The presentation also emphasized Clark's core offerings, including golf fairways, wellness retreats, adventure trails, and education tourism, with Clark International Airport serving as the primary strategic gateway for international markets.
Record-Breaking Metrics and Investment Growth
Clark's performance in 2025 showcased its emergence as a premier destination and economic driver in the Philippines. The region recorded 32.6 million visitors, generating PHP 43.47 billion in tourism spending, while investments reached an impressive PHP 372 billion. The MICE sector also saw remarkable growth, hosting nearly 3,000 events and sustaining over 151,000 jobs across more than 1,200 active locators. This growth is further bolstered by Clark International Airport's expansion, including the development of a second runway projected to be operational by late 2029, designed to support increasing demand from logistics carriers and ensure uninterrupted operations. International logistics giants UPS and FedEx are expanding their operations, while Lufthansa Technik Philippines is building a 157,000-square-meter MRO facility expected to create 1,200 skilled jobs by 2028.
65% Surge in Chinese Arrivals and Diplomatic Support
A key highlight of the Xiamen pitch was the 65% surge in Chinese arrivals since January, driven by a 14-day visa-free entry policy for Chinese tourists. This policy has significantly boosted tourism from China, making it a critical market for Clark's continued growth. The Philippine Consulate General in Xiamen is actively partnering with Fujian counterparts to strengthen economic ties and promote Clark as a top destination. Clark International Airport's role as the primary strategic gateway for international markets, combined with ongoing infrastructure developments, positions the region to capture an even larger share of the growing Asia-Pacific aviation and tourism markets.
