RP-Business News from PNA 13 May 1997
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By Lynda B. Valencia
MANILA , May 13 (PNA) -- The Clark International Airport (CIA) can
draw the expected rise in passenger and cargo air traffic only if it
will be developed as both a "regional distribution" and =84viation
service" center.
This was disclosed by Gen. (ret.) Romeo S. David, Clark
Development Corp. (CDC) president in a position paper, calling for the
simultaneous development of CIA and the Ninoy Aquino International
Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3.
David said the Clark airport should be upgraded with all haste to
meet the expected rise in passenger and cargo air traffic in the Asian
region.
He noted that before the year 2000, average passenger air traffic
in the region is estimated at about 350 million, with an increase in
cargo air traffic.
"In anticipation of these developments, Hong Kong, Singapore,
Japan, China, Thailand and even the island territory of Macau have built
or are starting to construct new airports to service giant, wide-bodied
jumbo jets to meet the challenge of market forces."
"There are billion dollar investments that have been attracted by
our plan to develop and operate Clark as a 'Regional Distribution
Center' and =B5viation Service Center' by the year 2000," David said.
He added, =89ven now the Bases Conversion Development Authority
(BCDA) is negotiating for a $3-billion financial investment package for
CIA."
Clark airport is the Philippines' competitive edge in the global
race for economic progress, David said.
"The development of two airports should open avenues for a win-win
solution that will benefit all parties, most especially the national
interest," David said. (PNA) jv/LBV/ nmm
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Article-ID: 05_1997&2130184
Score: 82
Subject: Re: (SECRET) HEARTBEAT OF AMERICA, Pt. 1