Time Zone |
Asia/Manila |
Standard Time GMT / UTC |
UTC+8 |
Daylight Saving Time |
Daylight saving time is not observed in the current region. |
Time Zone |
Europe/Guernsey |
Standard Time GMT / UTC |
UTC+0 |
Daylight Saving Time |
UTC+1 |
Mabalacat, located in the province of Pampanga in Central Luzon, Philippines, is an integral part of the Clark Freeport Zone and is known as the "Northern Gateway to the Clark Economy". Conveniently located next to the Clark International Airport, the city is an aviation hub connecting the Philippines with the rest of the country and beyond, attracting a large number of foreign investors and tourists. Mabalacat is known for its rich history, culture and natural beauty, with historical sites such as the World War II Memorial Park and St. Nicholas Church, as well as natural attractions such as the volcano Mount Ayungin, combining the energy of a modern city with the charm of a traditional culture. As the economic growth pole of Pampanga, Mabalacat is a modern city to be reckoned with in Central Luzon of the Philippines as it continues to develop its manufacturing, service and tourism industries.
The islands of Svalbard and Jan Mayenhem are not independent countries, but are Arctic archipelagic administrations under Norwegian jurisdiction. Located between latitudes 74° and 81° N, Svalbard, with its capital city of Longyearbyen, has a unique international treaty status - the 1920 Treaty of Svalbard grants equal commercial rights to the citizens of the signatory countries, but Norway maintains sovereignty. With 60% of the archipelago covered by glaciers, the archipelago is a major global Arctic research center, with a Chinese Yellow River Station. The population is about 2,700, and polar bears outnumber the residents, who are required to carry weapons for protection.
Jan Mayen is a volcanic island between the Norwegian mainland and Svalbard, with an area of 377 square kilometers and no permanent population. The island's volcano, Berenberg, is active, and the Norwegian military operates a weather station and navigation facility there. Together with Svalbard, the island forms Norway's strategic Arctic pivot, and has both scientific and military value.
Svalbard is known as the "Kingdom of Arctic Wildlife", with polar foxes, reindeer and walruses to be spotted during the summer polar days. The city of Longyearbyen prohibits death and procreation (critical cases must leave the island), and has a "Doomsday Seed Bank" to preserve the genes of global crops. Visitors can experience dog sledding and aurora observation, but must adhere to strict environmental regulations.