The Departments of Agriculture (DA) and Transportation (DOTr) have announced a collaborative effort to accelerate the development of a centralized food hub on land owned by the Clark International Airport Corp. (CIAC). The project aims to streamline the storage, processing, and distribution of agricultural products, improving access for farmers and enhancing national food logistics.
During a recent site inspection, Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. confirmed that 47 hectares within the CIAC property have been identified for the facility. An initial 12-hectare portion will be developed at a projected cost of ₱2 billion, he said.
“Access to the entire area remains challenging,” Laurel noted, but emphasized that the 12-hectare segment is viable for early development based on current resources.
Although smaller than Thailand’s 50-hectare model distribution center, the planned Clark hub is viewed as a foundational step, potentially paving the way for future expansion under succeeding administrations.
The food hub is expected to be operational within 18 months of construction, according to Laurel.
DOTr Secretary Vince Dizon, who also chairs CIAC, echoed the project’s importance, calling it a “game-changer” for Philippine agriculture. He highlighted Clark’s strategic proximity to major infrastructure such as the Subic Seaport, the Subic-Clark Expressway, and the Clark International Airport.
Dizon also shared that the concept drew inspiration from France’s Rungis International Market, originally proposed by French firm Semmaris. A previous attempt to develop the hub stalled due to the withdrawal of Semmaris’s local partner, citing high relocation costs.
With renewed government support, both Laurel and Dizon expressed confidence that the long-awaited Clark food hub will finally materialize, contributing to the modernization of the Philippines’ food value chain.
The DA is also exploring additional sites nationwide for similar hubs to enhance food stability, support farmers’ incomes, and drive economic growth.
