MANILA — Clark Development Corporation (CDC) President and CEO Atty. Agnes VST Devanadera underscored sports tourism as a driver of economic growth during the 7th Philippine Sports Tourism Awards held August 24, 2026, at the Marriott Hotel Manila.
Delivering remarks as the first Hall of Fame awardee of the Philippine Sports Tourism Awards, Devanadera recalled her years as mayor when tourism and sports were treated separately. Today, she said, their synergy is bearing fruit nationwide.
“Sports tourism is one of the best strategies to promote our destinations. It’s not a hard sell. Athletes bring families, supporters, and visitors — multiplying impact,” she stressed.
She pointed to New Clark City’s world class facilities and Subic’s natural assets — seas, mountains, and roads — as examples of destinations maximizing resources. She also recognized local governments outside Metro Manila for their contributions.
“Sports plus tourism equals growth. For Clark. For the country,” she added.
Also present at the event were Sports Turismo Alliance (STA) Executive Director Celso Jimenez Jr., STA Chairman Charles Lim, and DOT Undersecretary Shahlimar Hofer Tamano. The program also featured a keynote by Philippine Sports Commission Chairperson Patrick Gregorio and closing remarks by STA Vice President Benito Bengzon Jr.
The awards night affirmed sports tourism as a national growth engine, strengthening the visitor economy and promoting Philippine destinations.
Clark Freeport was officially recognized as the first Hall of Fame awardee at the 6th Philippine Sports Tourism Awards in Cebu in November 2024. The distinction, conferred by the STA and Selrahco PR, honored Clark’s multiple wins as Sports Tourism Destination of the Year in 2015, 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021.