Photo by: CDC
CLARK FREEPORT — The Clark Development Corporation (CDC) ushered in the Christmas season on Oct. 23 with the lighting of its holiday attractions and a free outdoor concert by the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra (PPO) at the Clark Parade Grounds.
Held under the theme “Clark Sparkles: A Symphony of Light and Music,” the celebration featured a 40-foot Christmas tree mounted on a seven-foot platform, a giant lantern measuring 30 feet in diameter, illuminated holiday installations and a musical program featuring 15 pieces.
A highlight of the event was “A Grand Symphony on the Grounds,” organized by CDC in partnership with the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), which brought orchestral music to the public in an open-air setting.
The celebration also marked the debut of Clark’s musical fountain, which was synchronized with the orchestra’s performance of “A Million Dreams,” adding a new attraction to the Freeport’s Christmas festivities.
CDC President and CEO Atty. Agnes VST Devanadera said the holiday lights symbolize hope and optimism that communities can carry through the Christmas season and beyond.
“The lights in Clark, the lights from the Christmas tree, always shine. This will always give us that hope, every year, year in and year out,” Devanadera said.
CCP Orchestra Director Eugene De Los Santos highlighted the importance of making cultural performances accessible to more people by bringing music beyond traditional concert venues.
“Art belongs not only in concert halls, but also in open public spaces where communities come together,” De Los Santos said.
The event was attended by CDC Chairman of the Board Atty. Edgardo Pamintuan, members of the CDC Board of Directors, Clark locators, and representatives of local government units under the Metro Clark Advisory Council.
Participating local governments included Mabalacat City, Angeles City, Porac in Pampanga, and Bamban and Capas in Tarlac. CDC employees and their families also joined the celebration.
Through its annual holiday activities, CDC continues to position Clark as a destination for community gatherings, cultural performances and family-friendly attractions during the Christmas season.