Clark Development Corporation (CDC) and Berthaphil, Inc. signed a supplemental lease agreement on Tuesday, covering a 4.1-hectare expansion within the Clark Freeport Zone. The agreement reaffirms a long-standing partnership that supports more than 300 locators and 20,000 jobs, according to CDC.
Signing ceremony details
The agreement was signed by CDC President Agnes Devanadera and Berthaphil Chairperson Michael Herman during a ceremony held at Tito Boy’s Restaurant. Witnesses included Berthaphil President and Chief Executive Officer Andre Schwartz and CDC Vice President for Business Development and Business Enhancement Group Noelle Mina Meneses.
Historic partnership hailed
Devanadera called the event historic, citing Berthaphil’s role as a pioneer in Clark’s growth and its relevance to the Luzon Economic Corridor and the upcoming Pax Silica project. “You laid the cornerstone for Clark’s development, and today Clark is not just Clark—it is the gateway to the Luzon Economic Corridor,” she said.
Herman underscored the family legacy behind the venture and expressed gratitude to CDC. “This partnership has been passed down from generation to generation, and at 86, I’m not retiring—I’m just getting started,” Herman said.
Historical context and impact
Schwartz placed the signing in historical perspective, recalling the company’s pioneering role after the 1991 Mt. Pinatubo eruption. “We manage eight business parks, lease to over 300 locators, and employ more than 20,000 people—today we reaffirm our pledge to invest our capital and resources in Clark,” Schwartz said.
The CDC chief said the agreement strengthens Clark’s position as a hub for investment, employment, and innovation. She added that Berthaphil’s expansion will attract new business and sustain the Freeport’s competitiveness.
