The Clark International Airport Corp. (CIAC) has clarified the widespread online attention surrounding its proposal for a Taylor Swift concert-ready entertainment complex in Pampanga, slated for completion by 2028. Observers noted the resemblance of the stadium and its adjacent developments to a new sports arena in San Diego, California.
In a statement, CIAC expressed pride in drawing inspiration from the rising San Diego Sports Arena, as discussed at the second Clark Technical Working Group (TWG) on Enhancing the Utilization of Clark International Airport (CRK) meeting.
“There was no intention of copyright infringement while showcasing our project development benchmarks to peers among national leaders and private sector stakeholders,” stated the state-run firm, which operates the Clark Civil Aviation Complex in Clark Freeport Zone, Pampanga.
CIAC recently unveiled its plan to construct a 40-hectare entertainment complex with an estimated cost of P32 billion, targeted for completion by 2028.
The entertainment center will feature the Clark World Convention and Events Hub, which CIAC described as generating significant excitement for its potential to host world-class events featuring artists like Taylor Swift and Coldplay.
“The Eras Tour has demonstrated the immense potential of tourism and the MICE industries (meetings, incentives, conventions, and exhibitions) to boost national economies,” CIAC noted.
Last Saturday, Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco attended a meeting in Clark concerning the utilization of the Clark airport. However, she clarified that she had no involvement in the CIAC presentation.
“CIAC President Arrey Perez’s plans and presentation for a concert venue are solely his. Any statements attributing otherwise to me are completely false,” Frasco stated on Facebook.
CIAC acknowledged that the Department of Tourism had no role in developing the viral presentation deck.
“We appreciate the Department of Tourism – Philippines for their unwavering support for Clark and their trust in our creative freedom, as they had no involvement in creating the viral presentation deck,” CIAC added.
“CIAC’s ambitious projects, including the Clark National Food Hub to address food security within the agriculture sector, aim to transform Clark into a master-planned mixed-use development, fostering a thriving ecosystem for businesses and communities,” the statement continued.
“We hope not only our Taylor Swift slide goes viral but also the enthusiasm to help us build Clark as our Airport City,” CIAC concluded.