New Clark City, located in Capas, Tarlac, has evolved significantly since its debut on the international stage during the 2019 Southeast Asian Games.
Built as part of the Philippines’ ambitious urban development plan, its world-class sports facilities — like the Aquatics Center and Athletics Stadium — have become symbols of a vision to create a sustainable and modern metropolis.
In the years since the SEA Games, the city has transitioned from being a sports hub to a multifunctional community. The government has prioritized the development of residential, commercial, and industrial zones, making it a model for green urban living and disaster-resilient infrastructure.
The pandemic temporarily slowed New Clark City’s progress, but it also accelerated its role as a government back-up hub. Key institutions relocated operations here, and its isolation made it a crucial site for COVID-19 quarantine and health response efforts, proving its adaptability and importance.
The boom of New Clark City is sought to be replicated in various former military bases across the Philippines. This effort is spearheaded by Senator Alan Peter Cayetano, who also successfully chaired the organizing committee for the 2019 SEA Games, through his sponsorship of a measure to strengthen the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), ensuring the transformation of underutilized lands into thriving economic hubs.
Today, New Clark City is gaining recognition beyond sports, drawing businesses, investors, and eco-conscious residents. With its success, there is hope that more replicas of New Clark City (and Fort Bonifacio which is another very successful story) will rise in other bases, bringing progress and sustainable development across the country.
