Central Luzon eyed as retirement haven

Central Luzon is fast becoming a retirement destination as increasing number of retirees abroad seek alternative and affordable place of retreat. Renato Romero, chairman of the Central Luzon Retirement Industry Enhancement Team (CLRIET) said that Subic and Clark have been chosen by the Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA) as one of the six retirement cluster areas in the country.

The other chosen retirement cluster areas are the National Capital Region, Baguio in North Luzon, Tagaytay in Southern Luzon, Cebu in the Visayas and Davao in Min­danao.

The said retirement cluster areas were chosen due to their proximity to international airports and have tertiary hospitals, tourist spots, and other facilities that are fit for retirees.

Romero said at least 355 retirees of the 4,450 have already been staying in Central Luzon as of December 2007.

Choosing Central Luzon as a retirement place for international retirees, Romero said is simple.

He said that lower cost of living in Central Luzon compared with Metro Manila and other countries along with nearby accredited retirement villages and support facilities make it easier for international retirees to decide to stay in the region. By DINO BALABO - The Philippine Star