Port of Clark and Clark Partnership

The history of the Bureau of Customs - Port of Clark reflects the transformation of Clark into one of the Philippines' most significant centers for trade, aviation, logistics, and economic development. Strategically located within Central Luzon, the Port of Clark has become a vital gateway that facilitates international commerce while ensuring the protection of the country's borders and the lawful collection of customs revenues.

The foundation of Clark's modern economic development began with the enactment of Republic Act No. 7227, otherwise known as the Bases Conversion and Development Act of 1992. This landmark legislation was created to accelerate the conversion of former United States military reservations into productive civilian and commercial areas following the withdrawal of American forces from the Philippines. The law paved the way for the transformation of Clark Air Base into a major center for investment, trade, tourism, and industrial growth.

In line with this national objective, Proclamation No. 163, s. 1993 formally created the Clark Special Economic Zone (CSEZ). The zone covered approximately 28,000 hectares and was envisioned as a modern economic center integrating industrial, commercial, residential, aviation, and tourism-related developments. The proclamation also established the Clark Development Corporation (CDC) as the implementing and operating arm of the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), tasked with managing and promoting the development of Clark into a globally competitive economic hub.

As the Clark Special Economic Zone rapidly expanded and attracted both local and foreign investors, the movement of goods, equipment, and commercial products significantly increased. This economic growth necessitated the establishment of a dedicated customs administration to oversee importation and exportation activities, facilitate legitimate trade, and ensure compliance with customs laws and regulations.

Recognizing the growing importance of Clark as an international gateway, Executive Order No. 55, s. 2001 was issued, creating the Sub-port of Clark Special Economic Zone as a Principal Port of Entry to be known as Collection District XIV or the Port of Clark International Airport. This issuance formally elevated Clark's status in the country's customs administration system and strengthened its role in supporting international trade and aviation operations within Central Luzon.

Subsequently, Customs Administrative Order (CAO) No. 02-2002 further reinforced the operational independence and jurisdiction of the Port of Clark. The order redefined the area of jurisdiction of Collection District No. II-A (Port of Manila) by excluding the Port of Clark International Airport from its coverage. In addition, the issuance established the organizational structure and personnel complement of the Port of Clark, thereby streamlining customs operations and improving the efficiency of cargo processing, trade facilitation, and revenue collection within the freeport and airport zones.

The continued expansion of economic activities in the region led to another major development through Proclamation No. 1035, s. 2006, which created and designated parcels of land situated in Angeles City, the municipalities of Mabalacat and Porac in Pampanga, and the municipalities of Capas and Bamban in Tarlac as a Special Economic Zone (SEZ). This proclamation established a new SEZ in Central Luzon covering approximately 337.65 million square meters, further solidifying Clark's position as a major investment and logistics center in the Philippines.

Over the years, Clark continued to evolve into a world-class metropolis and economic powerhouse. In November 2018, the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) and the Clark Development Corporation (CDC) consolidated four major developments under a unified brand known as "Clark: It Works. Like a Dream." within the Clark Freeport and Economic Zone (CFEZ). These developments included the Clark Freeport Zone, Clark Global City, Clark International Airport, and New Clark City. The integration of these districts strengthened Clark's identity as a premier destination for business, transportation, innovation, and sustainable urban development.

Today, the Bureau of Customs - Port of Clark plays a critical role in supporting the country's economic growth by facilitating lawful trade, ensuring efficient customs services, preventing smuggling, and safeguarding national borders. Through continuous modernization, digitalization, and inter-agency coordination, the Port of Clark remains committed to providing responsive and transparent customs administration aligned with global standards and the vision of the Bureau of Customs as a modernized and credible institution.