CLARK Development Corporation (CDC) President and CEO Agnes VST Devanadera emphasized Clark's readiness and commitment to hosting conventions during the opening of the Philippine Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibits Conference (Micecon) 2024 in Clark Freeport on July 11.

"We are ready. We are ready to bring in more people and more conventions," she said.

Clark Development Corporation President and CEO Agnes VST Devanadera welcomes the delegates of the Philippine Meetings, Incentive Travel, Conventions, and Exhibitions Conference 2024 in Clark during the opening ceremony held at the SMX Convention Center-Clark on July 11. CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS

Devanadera referenced the success of the Annual Communications (Ancom) of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the Philippines in April, which attracted over 7,000 guests and impacted nearby areas, including Angeles City.

Moreover, she highlighted CDC's plans to enhance Clark's capabilities, including expanding accommodation, constructing a new convention and cultural center on a five-hectare site, and expanding the SMX Convention Center Clark.

The CDC chief also noted Clark's accessibility through Clark International Airport (CRK) and major road networks. Additionally, the first phase of a forthcoming railway project is expected to be operational in 2026.

She also praised the Department of Tourism (DoT) and the Tourism Promotions Board Philippines (TPB) for their role in bringing the event to Clark and supporting local initiatives.

Ceremonial 'crowning' of Maria Sinukuan by Devanadera and Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco during the opening of Micecon 2024.

"With your support, and with the national government's support, and with the private sector's support, the locators – we have here 1,153 locators – we have 139,000 workers in the zone – all these contribute to making Clark ready as a MICE destination," Devanadera said.

"Beyond our infrastructure are the hearts of our people, both inside Clark and outside, as well as within the region, to welcome you today, tomorrow, and the next time," the CDC chief added.

Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco (third from left) and CDC President and CEO Agnes VST Devanadera (fourth from left) with members of the CDC board of directors and officials.

Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco (third from left) and CDC President and CEO Agnes VST Devanadera (fourth from left) with members of the CDC board of directors and officials.

For her part, DoT Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco affirmed to the delegates that Clark is Micecon-ready.

"The day has finally come. I believe that the delegates will all agree with me that nothing has been spared in terms of preparing for Micecon 2024. The community here in Clark, as well as Pampanga, have all come together to give you an experience like no other," Frasco said.

Organized by CDC and TPB, Micecon is the country's largest gathering of MICE professionals. Its return to Clark Freeport follows a successful 2014 event.