Angeles City

On June 15, 1991, Mount Pinatubo, a volcano in the Philippines, erupted in one of the largest volcanic eruptions of the 20th century. Angeles City, located near the volcano, was severely affected by the eruption. The ash fall and pyroclastic flows forced the evacuation of thousands of residents and caused widespread destruction. The eruption resulted in over 800 deaths and massive displacement. It also led to the temporary closure of Clark Air Base, a major U.S. military facility nearby.

Following the catastrophic eruption of Mount Pinatubo in June 1991, the United States decided to abandon Clark Air Base, which was one of its largest overseas military installations. The eruption had covered the base and surrounding areas, including Angeles City, in ash, making it uninhabitable. This marked the end of a significant American military presence in the region and had major economic impacts on Angeles City, which had been heavily reliant on the base for employment and local business.

On February 4, 1996, Angeles City organized the 'Rising from the Ashes' Festival to commemorate the city's recovery from the 1991 Mount Pinatubo eruption. The festival featured various cultural events, parades, and exhibitions showcasing the resilience and determination of the people of Angeles. It was a pivotal moment for the community, symbolizing hope and new beginnings. The festival also helped revitalize tourism and local pride in Angeles City, contributing to its ongoing recovery and transformation into a vibrant urban center.

The Clark Freeport Zone was officially created on January 1, 2003, transforming the former military base into a special economic zone. Situated in close proximity to Angeles City, the freeport has since become a hub for business and industry in the region. It offers a range of incentives to investors, such as tax breaks and streamlined business processes. The establishment of the Clark Freeport Zone has significantly contributed to the economic resurgence of Angeles City and its surrounding areas, attracting numerous local and international businesses.

On June 20, 2004, Mount Pinatubo was declared a National Park by the Philippine government. Located near Angeles City, the park was established to preserve the natural beauty and geological significance of the area following the volcano's catastrophic eruption in 1991. This designation has helped promote eco-tourism in the region and has provided opportunities for scientific study and nature conservation. It also symbolizes the recovery and rejuvenation of the area, highlighting the resilience of communities affected by the disaster.

On July 12, 2005, Angeles City was formally incorporated as a Highly Urbanized City (HUC) in the Philippines. This status was granted due to its substantial population and income levels. The new designation allowed for greater administrative independence from the provincial government of Pampanga. It marked an important step in the city's development, providing it with more autonomy in its local governance and enabling it to attract more investment and development projects. This transition was pivotal for Angeles City's economic and political stature.

On December 16, 2009, Angeles City saw the opening of Marquee Mall, a major commercial establishment and shopping center. Developed by Ayala Land, one of the Philippines' leading real estate companies, this mall provided residents and visitors with a modern retail experience. Marquee Mall quickly became a landmark, offering a wide selection of international and local brands, dining options, and entertainment facilities. Its opening signified a major step in the commercial development of Angeles City, attracting more businesses and tourists to the area.

On September 10, 2013, Angeles City celebrated its 100th anniversary since its founding as a town. The centennial celebration included a series of cultural and historical events, parades, and exhibits that highlighted the history and achievements of the city over the past century. This milestone was an opportunity for residents and visitors to reflect on the city's rich heritage and to promote unity and pride among the community. The celebration also underscored Angeles City's continued growth and development.

Clark International Airport, situated near Angeles City, was formally established as a major airport hub in the region on October 10, 2015. Serving as a secondary gateway to the Philippines in addition to Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila, it plays a crucial role in easing air traffic congestion in the capital. Its establishment was a strategic move to promote economic growth in the Central Luzon region and to improve the connectivity of Angeles City with other major domestic and international destinations.

The establishment of New Clark City was officially announced on January 26, 2018, envisioning a new urban center located near Angeles City. Developed by the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), this ambitious project aims to create a sustainable, smart city as part of the Philippines' long-term development plan. New Clark City is designed to decongest Metro Manila and promote growth in the Central Luzon region. It features environmentally friendly infrastructure and has sparked interest from various international investors looking for opportunities in the Philippines.