MABALACAT CITY – The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) and the Clark Development Corporation (CDC) are preparing the “curated experience” that will allow foreign visitors from cruise ships to visit nearby provinces.
SBMA Chairman and Administrator Wilma T. Eisma said the agency wants an “inclusive growth” in the development of Subic as a cruise ship destination in Asia.
Eisma told members of the Pampanga Press Club (PPC) during its regular meeting at the Park Inn Radisson Clark on Tuesday that “Zambales, Pampanga, Bataan and Clark Freeport Zone are part of the growth corridor.”
Eisma said she was pushing for the visa-free entry at the Subic Freeport for foreign passengers aboard the cruise ships. “Once it happens, tayo napo ang aayaw sa turista,” according to Eisma who predicted the arrival of more tourists not only in Subic but in Central Luzon.
Esima said at least 17 large cruise ships with thousands of passengers have arrived at the Subic Freeport since February. Ten more cruise ships are expected to arrive before the year ends.
The SBMA is currently training tourist guides in anticipation of the influx of visitors in the area. – (APSP)