CLARK FREEPORT ZONE — Clark has welcomed more than 1,200 engineers from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) region during the 43rd Conference of the ASEAN Federation of Engineering Organisations (CAFEO43), reaffirming its status as a premier destination for meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) in Asia.
The event, held from October 28 to 30 at the SMX Convention Center Clark, opened with a welcome dinner that highlighted regional collaboration, professional development, and continuing education for the engineering sector.
In her remarks, Clark Development Corporation (CDC) President and CEO Agnes Devanadera underscored the critical role of engineers in national development and regional integration.
“There can be no development in any country without infrastructure, and that’s how vital your profession is,” she said.
Devanadera also highlighted the contribution of engineers in Clark’s transformation from a former United States airbase into a thriving economic zone following the 1991 Mt. Pinatubo eruption.
“We have risen from the ashes and are now leading economic growth in this part of our country. The poverty rate in Pampanga is now just one percent. Our recovery would not have been possible without the engineers,” she added.
With the theme “ASEAN Engineers: Beacons of Prosperity, Inclusivity, Equity, Resilience, and Sustainability,” CAFEO 43 showcased Clark’s strategic position in the North Luzon Economic Corridor and its commitment to infrastructure-driven growth.
Devanadera also cited Clark’s recent recognition as Asia’s Leading Meetings and Conference Destination 2025 by the World Travel Awards, attributing the honor to the region’s world-class facilities and professional excellence.
The CDC chief likewise lauded ASEAN engineers for pursuing continuing education and maintaining professional standards through the ASEAN Engineer title.
“You don’t just analyze problems, you propose solutions. That’s what the world needs now…We are able to sustain our growth because of you—the engineers who have done very good professional work. My salute to your profession,” she pressed.
CAFEO recognizes 13 engineering disciplines under the ASEAN Engineer Register: civil, mechanical, electrical, chemical, mining, industrial, environmental, geodetic, electronics, marine, metallurgical, agricultural, and information and communications technology (ICT).
Delegates represented all ASEAN member states, including Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, and Timor-Leste. (CLJD/MJSC, PIA Region 3-Pampanga)