President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. inspects the Airport to New Clark City Access Road (ANAR) within the Clark Freeport and Special Economic Zone (CFEZ), Pampanga morning on February 21, 2024.
"[It] is a key component in boosting the Clark Metropolis as an investment and tourism destination. It is a part of a larger package of 'build better more activities.' It aims to enlarge Clark's profile in the global investment map," the President said.
The 20-kilometer ANAR project, which cost P8.42 billion, is aimed to enhance the travel and trade between Central and Northern Luzon, Metro Manila and Clark International Airport.
He said unlocking the full potential of Clark is a continuous process.
The President said that it is also important to invest in human capital besides physical infrastructures to sustain economic growth.
He believed that Pampanga is a strategic location for the project, according to the Radio Television Malacañang (RTVM) in a Facebook post.
"With its strategic location in Pampanga — a Province rich in agriculture and culinary heritage — the Chief Executive believes Clark has all the components to become a magnet for tourists, investments, and marketable goods and services," the post said.
The ANAR will be operational starting February 22, 2024.
"Once operational, it will reduce travel time between the Clark International Airport and New Clark City from one hour to 20 minutes, it will also save commuters money as ANAR is toll-free," Marcos said.