Angeles, chartered city, central Luzon, Philippines. The city lies on the principal north-south highway and railway lines 50 miles (82 km) north of Manila. Angeles is the site of Angeles University (founded 1962), a Roman Catholic seminary, and several other colleges. Once known as the “city of the dollar,” Angeles had an economy fueled by its proximity to the American-run Clark Air Base, which was responsible for the rapid growth of the city by providing substantial employment, housing, and business opportunities.
The eruption of Mount Pinatubo in June 1991, followed by the subsequent decision of the U.S. government to abandon the ash-covered air base that November, were serious blows to the city’s economy. However, following cleanup of the ash, the Clark facility was converted into an international airport, and a free port and an economic zone were also established there. Those facilities have been significant economic boons in the region. Inc. city, 1963. Pop. (2000) 267,788; (2010) 326,336.