Is Clark Air Force Base Still Open?
A Historical Background
Clark Air Force Base is a military base located in Angeles City, Philippines, approximately 80 kilometers (50 miles) north of the capital city of Manila. The base has a long and rich history, dating back to World War II.
During World War II
Clark Air Force Base was first established in 1941 as a stopping point for aircraft ferrying supplies from the United States to Australia. During the war, the base was under Japanese control, but American forces reclaimed it in January 1945. Following the war, the base was modernized and upgraded to support the increasing operations of the United States Far East Air Force.
Closure and Restoration
In August 1991, an eruption of Mount Pinatubo, a volcano nearby, prompted the United States to relocate its forces stationed at Clark Air Force Base. The eruption was severe, producing massive ash falls and acid rain that posed a significant threat to air operations. The base was officially closed on December 31, 1992.
In the years that followed, the Philippine government took possession of the property and embarked on a multi-billion peso restoration project aimed at redeveloping the base as a civilian aerotropolis. The aerotropolis, which also includes commercial and industrial establishments, now serves as the Clark Freeport Zone and is home to various domestic and international businesses.
Current Status
So, is Clark Air Force Base still open? Well, not as a military airbase anymore. The old Clark Air Force Base as a US military facility was officially closed in 1992, and its resources were redistributed to other areas. Today, the name "Clark Air Force Base" still exists, but it has been repurposed and redeveloped as the Clark Freeport Zone and Clark International Airport.
Here are some points to help clarify the status:
• Civil Aviation: The Clark International Airport (CRK) currently operates under the name, which still honors the airport’s historic roots. Clark International Airport is a fully functional civilian airport, capable of accommodating commercial airliners and passenger traffic.
• Security: Although not a US military base anymore, Clark International Airport falls under the jurisdiction of the Philippine National Police and Department of Tourism, ensuring enhanced security and safety measures to protect the airport and passengers.
• Aerotropolis Development: The erstwhile base has been repurposed as a massive aerotropolis, fostering economic growth and development around the city of Angeles.
• Military Cooperation: Although there are no long-term military bases on Philippine soil, the two governments have signed agreements to ensure continued defense cooperation, airbase-sharing, and regular military training exercises.
Table: Major Changes and Accomplishments
| Type | Timeframe | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Clark Air Force Base Closure | 1991-1992 | Closure due to Mount Pinatubo’s eruption and relocation of US forces. |
| Redeployment | 1992-present | Base land was distributed to local business and residents, while restoration efforts revitalized the surrounding area. |
| New Airport Infrastructure | 2013 | Clark International Airport’s (CRK) new terminals, runway enhancements, and expanded parking facility were opened. |
| Aerotropolis Development | 1990s-Present | Clark Freeport Zone growth, with mixed-used developments (residential-commercial-industrial) and additional infrastructure support. |
In conclusion, while Clark Air Force Base is no longer a functional US military facility, it has undergone a remarkable transformation into the vibrant Clark International Airport and a thriving aerotropolis in the Clark Freeport Zone. Today, Clark City is an attractive destination for tourists and businesses alike, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and economic potential.
