The Philippine MICE Conference (MICECON) returned to Clark after a decade, marking a successful three-day event from July 10-12, 2024.
Organised by the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines, Clark Development Corporation (CDC), and various stakeholders, MICECON 2024 attracted over 820 delegates from various business events sectors and academic institutions to the SMX Convention Center Clark.
Themed M.I.C.E. XD: Xperience Diversified, the conference emphasised embracing new ideas and technologies in the business events industry. Among the session topics were artificial intelligence technology, crisis recovery and reputation management, and inclusive event planning.
During the conference, the Clark Development Corporation (CDC) also shared plans for three new hotels to bolster accommodation options, as well as develop dedicated business events venues in current properties.
For larger events, a new five-hectare convention and cultural centre with a capacity of 15,000 attendees is on the horizon. Connectivity will also see a boost, with the continued expansion of Clark International Airport’s flight connections, and the ongoing development of a train system connecting Clark to neighbouring regions. The first phase of this train system is expected to be completed by 2026.
During the opening ceremony, TPB’s chief operating officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles also launched the MICE Philippines: We Take Your Business to Heart programme, showcasing the country’s commitment to the sector.
In full support was the Department of Tourism (DOT) secretary Christina Garcia Frasco. Citing Clark’s status as a tourist and MICE destination, Frasco stated: “The Philippines is not only able to host conventions; it is also able to offer pre- and post-tours that you will find nowhere else in the world.”
Frasco further underscored Clark’s capacity to hold large-scale conferences. “Clark’s selection as the host of MICECON 2024 is a recognition of its readiness and potential as a premier MICE destination. The Clark Freeport Zone’s accessibility, state-of-the-art conference venues, and comprehensive support services are very well prepared to welcome all the participants of MICECON 2024.”
