Clark aviation complex eyed as next logistics hub

MANILA, Philippines — State-run Clark International Airport Corp. (CIAC) is set to transform the Clark aviation complex into the logistics center of the Philippines, banking on the rebounding operations of airline firms and freight forwarders locating in the area.

CIAC officer in charge Darwin Cunanan said the Clark Civil Aviation Complex can be transformed into a cargo, service and logistics hub for multinationals to complement the use of the nearby airport.

The Clark International Airport, the alternative gateway to the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, is situated within the 2,367 hectare Clark aviation complex managed by the CIAC.

“The Clark Civil Aviation Complex is distinctly viable for its privately-run world-class international airport, sprawling and uncongested complex with aviation-related industries, a business-friendly and disaster-resilient environment. Further, we have the full support of Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista and the Bases Conversion and Development Authority,” Cunanan said.

According to Cunanan, the Clark aviation complex has the components needed to become a logistics hub.

It hosts the operations of three aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) service providers, namely, Singapore Airlines Engineering, Lufthansa Technik Philippines and Hong Kong’s Metrojet Engineering.

Aside from MRO firms, delivery giant FedEx Corp. manages a shipping facility there expected to expand capacity by five times once Clark is turned into a transshipment base.

Furthermore, Cunanan pointed out the CIAC has redesigned its investment promotion strategy to focus on investors in the logistics and service industries.

In this way, the state-run firm hopes to build up on the existing centers for airlines, logistics and transport operating in Clark’s aviation complex.

President Marcos earlier led the opening of the Clark airport’s New Terminal Building, a 110,000-square meter facility that can accommodate at least eight million passengers every year.

During his speech, the President said Clark plays a crucial role in turning the Philippines into a logistics giant.

The Chief executive said the government should work on opening direct flights around the regions as much as possible to decongest the Manila airport. He believes that Clark can serve as an example of how provincial airports can gain from expanding their route options.

“This facility is another building block in what we hope [will] become a logistics center for Asia,” Marcos added.

While the construction works in the New Manila International Airport in Bulacan and the Sangley Point International Airport in Cavite are ongoing, Marcos said regional airports must be opened.