Event organisers on the lookout for fresh and novel venues can consider Clark International Airport (CRK), located within the Clark Freeport Zone in Pampanga, Philippines.
The award-winning CRK recently transformed its domestic pre-boarding area into a venue for the MICECON 2024 welcome gala dinner, where over 1,000 guests enjoyed a mix of standing cocktails and a sit-down dinner.
According to Teri Flores, head of corporate communications for Luzon International Premiere Airport Development Corp., CRK is open to partnering with business event organisers on events that align with the airport’s goals. For instance, the airport has hosted airline launches, and other high-profile tourism events.
Depending on the event’s effect on regular passenger flow, Flores said the departure hall, international pre-boarding area and commercial area may also be used as event venues. With an expansive outdoor space, CRK can also host outdoor events such as concerts, fairs, and motoring events.
CRK is also exploring potential spaces that the facility can convert for smaller meetings and seminars, where boarding or airport announcements will not disrupt ongoing meetings.
Although CRK is a unique venue, Flores admitted that it was “a bit of a challenge” in organising events, as the airport is “first and foremost an airport”, and its number one priority is to ensure that passengers are not affected by any ongoing events.
Security is also a paramount concern. As a security-controlled area, the airport maintains strict protocols for events. All parties involved, including suppliers, caterers, event organisers, and guests, must adhere to these security procedures, Flores added.
With 17 years of experience, he was most recently trade manager business events for Tourism New Zealand, where he oversaw the development and implementation of business events strategy for South-east Asia.
He has been part of Destination Asia since his appointment in 2018, helping develop the key sectors of meetings and events, tailormade travel and cruise. His forward-thinking approach has helped strengthen Destination Asia’s footprint and been pivotal in driving innovation and growth within the company.
Espallardo was also the director of sales at Sunlight Hotels and Resorts which has three properties in Coron, Culion and Puerto Princesa, all in Palawan.
With over two decades of luxury hospitality experience, Matai Gilroy joins Conrad Maldives Rangali Island from The Sukhothai Bangkok.