New Clark City - CNN Philippines

Summary

The Philippines is developing New Clark City in Central Luzon as a sustainable alternative to congested Metro Manila. This 32,000-hectare green, smart city aims to be the country's first resilient urban center, with a focus on environmental protection and modern architecture. It will feature a national government administrative center, integrated transportation, and 60% green space, setting a new standard for sustainable urban planning.

Takeaways

• 🌏 The Philippines is pursuing rapid economic growth, aiming to balance this with proper urban planning.
• 🏙️ The government is focusing on new developments in Central Luzon, specifically Clark Freeport and Special Economic Zone.
• 🚀 Clark's strategic location and infrastructure are seen as an alternative to Metro Manila's congestion.
• 🌱 New Clark City is envisioned to be the first green, smart, and resilient city in the Philippines.
• 🏛️ The city will become a center of governance with a planned national government administrative center.
• 🔄 The development aims to reduce traffic congestion in Metro Manila by relocating government offices.
• 🏡 The city's design philosophy is rooted in Filipino culture, modernizing the traditional 'bahay Kubo' approach.
• 🌿 60% of the development is reserved for green spaces, emphasizing environmental protection.
• 🚆 Transportation is a key feature, with plans for an underground train station and integrated rail systems.
• 🏗️ The 'Build, Build, Build' program positions Clark at the center of infrastructure development, aiming for a modern, sustainable community.

Q & A

What is the Philippines' status among Asian economies?

The Philippines is among the fast-growing economies in Asia.

What is the potential risk of pursuing the current growth path in the Philippines?

The potential risk is giving up proper urban planning and not channeling the gains to the masses.

What is the government doing to ensure proper urban planning outside Metro Manila?

The government is carrying out new developments in Central Luzon, particularly in Clark Freeport and Special Economic Zone.

What are the benefits of developing Clark as an alternative to Metro Manila?

Clark's strategic location and connectivity infrastructure make it a viable alternative to Metro Manila's traffic congestion.

What is New Clark City and where is it located?

New Clark City is part of the Clark Special Economic Zone, approximately 32,000 hectares in size, located north of Metro Manila.

What is the vision for New Clark City?

It is envisioned to be the first green, smart, and completely resilient city in the Philippines.

How does New Clark City plan to reduce traffic congestion?

By relocating the national government administrative center and developing a comprehensive transportation system.

What is the significance of the 'bahay Kubo' philosophy in New Clark City's design?

The 'bahay Kubo' philosophy is being modernized and integrated into the city's design to reflect Filipino roots.

What environmental considerations are being made in the development of New Clark City?

The development is focused on preserving rivers, creating recreational spaces, and ensuring 60% of the area is reserved for green spaces.

What kind of transportation infrastructure is planned for New Clark City?

The city will have world-class, integrated, and interconnected transportation, including an underground train station.

How does New Clark City fit into the President's 'Build, Build, Build' program?

New Clark City is at the center of infrastructure development under the program, positioning Clark as a strategic location for growth.