Group to CDC: Be transparent on Capilion project

• Source: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/pampanga/local-news/2015/07/16/group-cdc-be-transparent-capilion-project-419261
• Thursday, July 16, 2015

By Reynaldo G. Navales

ANGELES CITY -- An advocacy group, calling for the full development of Clark International Airport (CRK), is urging the Clark Development Corporation (CDC) to observe transparency on the controversial P7-billion Singapore-based Capilion development project in Clark Freeport.

This was echoed during a multi-sectoral consultative meeting, which was called by the Pinoy Gumising Ka Movement (PGKM) to thresh out several issues regarding the construction of a mixed-use facility at the main entrance of the Clark Freeport.

PGKM head Ruperto Cruz, owner of the Grand Pallazo Royale, said that CDC should show the group the contract the state-owned corporation forged with the Singaporean firm, which is set to construct the multi-storey commercial complex inside a three-hectare property situated along the Freeport's MA Roxas Avenue.

"CDC president Arthur Tugade cannot show us the contract for transparency’s sake," Cruz said.

The businessman also pointed out that the contract should be properly documented and authenticated by Singapore and the Philippine Embassy.

"We believe that the move of CDC to put Capilion at Clark’s main gate is a sabotage to the full development of Clark airport," Cruz said.

He described the project as “illegal because it has no public consultation and public bidding.”

The Capilion project will only create traffic congestion in Dau, Mabalacat City; Balibago, Clark South Perimeter Road (Don Juico Avenue); and Friendship Avenue in Angeles City.

Councilor Max Sangil said that the facility is located within a “buffer zone” which is no longer part of the Clark Freeport as declared by Republic Act 9400 or the Bases Conversion and Development Act as amended.

Angeles City Vice-Mayor Vicky Vega Cabigting expressed full support to the group.

She however said that the city council will also hear other sides including that of the barangays concerned, CDC and the proponent of the project.

Korean businessmen, executives of several hotels and restaurants, and representatives from the Metro Angeles Chamber of Commerce and Industry Incorporated (Maccii) attended the meeting.

Noel Tulabut, head of the CDC Media and Public Affairs Office, said the corporation has been transparent about the project.

He said that CDC addressed all the issues raised by local officials and businessmen.

Tulabut added that several village leaders, including Malabanias Chairman Reynaldo Gueco, and other businessmen are in favor of the project.

The project is expected to spur development in the area and provide employment to the people of Angeles City and Pampanga, he said.