BUSINESS leader Dr. Irineo Alvaro Jr. laid down Monday, September 23, before the local Philippine National Police (PNP) the ongoing developments within the Clark Freeport Zone and its environs, emphasizing the need for cooperation between the business sector and law enforcement agencies to maintain a peaceful environment to further foster growth in the area.

"Clark and the entire of Pampanga is now the epicenter of the rush of investments, both local and foreign, that will create many job opportunities here which, however, would result in the influx of migration," Alvaro said in a speech during the flag ceremony of the Angeles police.

He said more tourists are also expected to be coming to Clark, Angeles City and nearby areas because of the increase in tourism-oriented events and facilities.

"Progress creates jobs, and jobs and improved livelihood reduce crime, even as more people would be coming to Clark, Angeles City, Mabalacat and other nearby areas," he said.

"On the other hand, increased population would also require more and better social services in education, health, housing, and peace and order, which would put pressure on our police authorities," he added.

He told the police that there can be no progress without peace, and there can be no peace without progress. He called on the police "to march in the same direction" with the business sector to bring forth peace and progress.

Alvaro said poverty is still the root of many social problems, including crime.

"If we can sustain progress, criminality and lawlessness will be greatly reduced," he said.

Alvaro, chairman of the Clark Investors and Locators Association (Cila), said there is thus a need for better cooperation and regular interaction between business and the police to sustain if not improve the pace of development in Clark and in the whole of Pampanga.

He said that through Cila, a regular consultative mechanism with the police and other law enforcement agencies can be established to update them of business developments in Clark. (PR)