The two agencies signed a memorandum of understanding on March 25 to conduct a joint study on establishing specialized pharma ecozones within the Clark Civil Aviation Complex in Pampanga and New Clark City in Tarlac.
The initiative aims to unlock opportunities in pharmaceutical manufacturing, medical equipment production, cold chain logistics, and research and development—sectors seen as critical to strengthening the country’s healthcare system and industrial base.
Building a ‘factory-to-port’ ecosystem
At the core of the partnership is the goal of reducing the Philippines’ reliance on imported medicines by building a more integrated domestic supply chain.
By combining Clark’s aviation and logistics capabilities with New Clark City’s industrial potential, the agencies aim to develop a “factory-to-port” ecosystem that supports end-to-end pharmaceutical production and distribution.
“This signing bridges the gap between logistics and manufacturing,” said PPPI President and CEO Maria Blanca Kim B. Lokin. “We are creating a high-tech environment where research, production, and global distribution can thrive in one place.”
Enhancing healthcare supply chains
The study will focus on identifying suitable sites for advanced manufacturing facilities and research hubs, while ensuring seamless logistics through Clark International Airport, particularly for temperature-sensitive pharmaceutical products.
It will also examine policy and incentive frameworks designed to attract global pharmaceutical firms while supporting local manufacturers, in line with the government’s push to expand ecozone development beyond Metro Manila.
BCDA President and CEO Joshua M. Bingcang said the initiative is expected to strengthen the country’s healthcare ecosystem while driving economic growth.
“By positioning Clark as a key node in healthcare and innovation, we can improve access to medicines, foster innovation, and build a more resilient supply chain,” he said.
Potential economic driver
Beyond healthcare, the proposed ecozones are seen as a potential economic driver for Central Luzon, with the capacity to generate high-value jobs for scientists, pharmacists, engineers, and other skilled professionals.
The project also aligns with the Marcos administration’s broader strategy of decentralizing growth, attracting investments, and promoting inclusive development across regions.
As the feasibility study gets underway, both agencies are positioning the initiative as a long-term investment in the country’s health security and industrial competitiveness—laying the groundwork for a more self-sufficient and innovation-driven pharmaceutical sector. —Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
