MABALACAT CITY --- Vice-President Jejomar Binay has cited the potential of Mabalacat City as an investment and tourist haven.

The Vice President disclosed this during his visit to the residence of former Mabalacat City councilor Jerry Basilio at the Fiesta Communities in Barangay Tabun here on Tuesday.

The city, which covers majority of Clark Freeport, may soon become the Makati of Northern Luzon, said Binay.

"Itong Mabalacat isa na ho ito sa kinikilalang uunlad ang local government. Congratulations po. Minsan nga nababanggit na ang Mabalacat bukas makalawa ay magiging Makati ng Northern Luzon," Binay said.

He also cited that the national government needs to support local government units like Mabalacat especially on providing jobs for the people.

“Ang pangarap ko ho sana ay mawala na ang overseas Filipino workers (OFW) at hindi na po aalis ang isang Pilipino because of necessity o yung pangangailan. Kung aalis man sa Pilipinas ay yung aasenso siya dahil sa kanyang profession,” Binay said.

Binay was accompanied by his runningmates under UNA political party including Senator Gringo Honasan, who is running for vice-president; and senatorial candidates Alma Moreno, veteran broadcaster Rey Langit, former PNP Special Action Force (SAF) chief Getulio Napenas, and others.