Philippine Netizens Respond To Stadium Development Plans For Taylor Swift's Concert

JAKARTA - The Philippine plan through The Clark International Airport and Corp. (CIAC) who wants to build a magnificent stadium to hold a Taylor Swift concert has received mixed responses.

Through social media, Filipino netizens expressed their opinion on the plan. Many support it so that the plan can actually be realized.

"It's okay. Let's go, Taylor Swift's concert is a good benchmark for big events, and is supported by the latest experience. In fact, the existence of a large venue will restore sports and entertainment in the Philippines," said one netizen, citing PhilSTAR Life, Sunday, July 14.

Other netizens say the construction of a large stadium in a strategic location close to the airport is the right decision. That way, people will find it easier to visit, if a big concert is held.

"As Filipinos, we always need a bigger stadium. Our largest stadium currently has a capacity (55,000) and is located in my neck, in the southern part of our country, so it will be more difficult to prepare. This country really needs a bigger place," said another netizen.

However, there are also those who do not support the construction of the stadium. They see that there are other things that are more important that the Philippines should focus on.

"Not to be a hater or anything, but this stadium is completely useless at the moment. Thousands of Filipinos are experiencing poverty, lack of education, homelessness, lack of job opportunities, and so on. But they are still investing in building stadiums? We have bigger problems than stadiums," said one netizen.

"Swifties, please don't praise this as 'This is Taylor's influence or he is very important'. Because as someone who lives in the Philippines, this is very embarrassing. Use those funds for more important infrastructure! Build more rail lines! Increase education! This shouldn't be a priority," wrote another netizen.

Meanwhile, Arrey Perez as CIAC President and CEO told local media that the stadium would be close to Clark International Airport (CRK) in Pampanga.

He asked Taylor Swift to appear when the stadium was finished in 2028.

"The Philippines has always been a music lover industry, whenever there is an international concert that hits. Especially with Clark Airport, it will be very easy to watch (concerts) when the facilities are here," said Arrey Perez.

The stadium itself is expected to be built on an area of 40 hectares, costing 32 billion Peso or around Rp. 8.827 trillion.