CLARK FREEPORT— Clark Development Corporation (CDC) President and CEO Manuel R. Gaerlan led CDC officers and employees this morning in paying tribute to Former President Fidel V. Ramos (FVR) who passed away over the weekend.
After the traditional flag-raising ceremony, Gaerlan requested for a one minute of silence and ordered the flag to be flown at half-mast in honor of his passing.
Gaerlan, who is a former Police Brigadier General and served as FVR’s aide-de-camp, said that “President Ramos was the major catalyst for nation building during his term in 1992-1998. Under his leadership, CDC was established after he signed EO No. 80 in 1993”.
“This catapulted the creation of CDC as the implementing arm of BCDA in this Freeport. He will forever be remembered as a lead advocate in promoting economic development in the country,” he added.
On a personal note, Gaerlan expressed his sympathy towards the Ramos family during this very difficult time.
“Ang CDC, kasama ng buong Gaerlan family, ay lubos na nalulungkot sa pagkawala ng dating Pangulong Fidel V. Ramos. The lessons I learned from him when I served as his Aide-de-Camp and Security Officer guided me in my career in the Philippine National Police and in Clark as CEO. He is truly an inspirational leader,” he said.
For his part, CDC Chairman Atty. Edgardo D. Pamintuan conveyed his condolences in a statement posted on his Facebook page. He also acknowledged FVR’s efforts to transform this Freeport into what it is now.
“We owe FVR for the creation of BCDA, CDC, Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) and Camp John Hay that turned these former American bases into industrial estates and Freeport zones. He saw the promise of converting these lands into economic possibilities that provide investments, jobs and livelihood for many Filipinos.”
In March 2021, CDC officials passed a resolution recognizing the role and contributions of FVR to the development and growth of Clark Freeport and its international airport. The resolution, which was initiated by Gaerlan, recognized FVR as the Father of CDC.