The former site of a
United States Air Force Base and once was the most strategic military position
of America in the Far East; Clark, Pampanga has morphed into a highly developed
city within a city. Known today as the Clark Freeport Zone – it currently
houses modern infrastructures serving as a major hub for tourism, business,
aviation, education, manufacturing and other leading industries. The robust
development which started in 1995 after years of neglect brought on by the
departure of the US Military and the eruption of Mount Pinatubo, Clark Freeport
Zone quickly became the leisure, entertainment and gaming center in Central
Luzon.
Encompassing an area of
4,400 hectares and 27,600 more hectares of sub-zone, Clark Freeport Zone is now
seen as a thriving and still growing region primed to showcase a more exciting
future. Inside the main Clark Freeport Zone, an array of fun and
cultural-oriented places offers a wide array of enjoyment for the whole family.
Check out some of these places that will definitely lure you to stay for a day or two in
Clark.
Comercio Central
Situated within the Clark
Parade Grounds, Comercio Central gathers artisans and other food connoisseurs
through the various food and craft stalls set up in an intimate camp-like
setting. Here, tourists can sample various Kapampangan and other international
cuisines as well as buy fresh vegetables and fruits. Shops selling clothes,
artworks and souvenir items are also available. Comercio Central is the ideal
place to unwind before calling it a day. It opens late in the afternoon and
last until late in the evening.
Hansa Toy Factory
One of the earliest
companies that set up base in Clark has now grown into a world acclaimed stuffed toy maker.
Various stuffed animals almost comes to life from the hands of Hansa’s skilled
workers, such as; tigers, lions, elephants, grizzly bears, horses, monkeys and
more. Some of their creations even landed the sets and had on-screen time in numerous
films like; Life of Pi, Harry Potter and The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus
just to state a few. As a grown-up I had a fun time getting up close with many
of Hansa’s creation, which were on display and open to the public at the second
floor. Imagine the look on a kid’s eye when they interact with these life-sized animal stuffed toys.
Aqua Planet
Slated to open in February
2018, this water park features an assortment of giant slides suited for all
ages. A total of 25 pool attractions that includes; flow rider, the super bowl,
the spiral slide – just by its names, it already instill heaps of thrills
already. What more if you spend an afternoon or a whole day just frolicking
around and enjoying Aqua Planet’s electrifying swimming pools.
4D Theater
Familiarize your whole
family with the story of how Clark Freeport Zone came to life by watching a
documentary narrating the story of the Mount Pinatubo eruption of 1991. Clark’s
4D Theater features a state-of-the-art technology that will make your viewing
experience more absorbing – especially after you see the scenes depicting the Kapampangan’s resolve to get back up on
their feet after the devastating effects of Pinatubo’s violent eruption.
Clark Museum
Next to the 4D cinema is
the Clark Museum. 100 pesos gets you in but if you’re a female then you get in
for free – thanks to the Gender Development program being initiated by the
management of Clark Freeport Zone. The museum displays artifacts and other
historical items dating back to the American occupation, the World War II and
the storied years of the US bases in the Philippines. By also showcasing
various emblems of true Kapampangan
cultures and traditions – the Clark Museum makes up for a great stop to learn
more about the province of Pampanga, its people, history and rich heritage.
The Clark SunValley Country Club
Play a round of golf for
only 3,000 pesos on weekdays and 3,500 pesos on weekends, at the Clark
Sunvalley Country Club. Situated on a hill overlooking a picturesque and lush
countryside of Pampanga, there’s no better place to unwind and relax, than
hitting golf balls on this world-class golf course.
Nayong Filipino
I grew up making numerous
visits to the old Nayong Filipino located near the Ninoy Aquino International
Airport. I felt sad when I heard that it was closed down many years ago. This
is why, I felt a great sense of relief when I learned that a new Nayong
Filipino was established inside Clark, Pampanga. Memories of my childhood years
were replayed through my mind as I saw replicas of Philippine's natural and other
man-made landmarks such as; the Ifugao rice terraces, the Barasoain church,
traditional houses and the likes. Among the highlights includes; a daily
cultural show happening at the auditorium followed by a colorful street parade,
participated by performers adorned in vibrant traditional festival clothes.
Other than foodtripping at the ever-increasing list
of fancy restaurants and charming hole-in-the-walls establishment inside Clark
Freeport Zone, your whole family can also opt to stay at the many fine hotels
located here. A staycation for a couple of days or more, is a good length of
time to fully explore the whole of Clark.
