Malacañang said provisions of the proposed Pax Silica Industrial Hub may still change as the government reviews concerns over its water and electricity needs, environmental impact and possible effects on communities near New Clark City in Tarlac.
Palace Press Officer and Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro made the statement on Thursday, after groups raised questions about the planned technology and manufacturing zone covering roughly 1,620 hectares.
“May chance po na mabago ang ibang mga provisions kung ano po ‘yung maaari pang mas maging maganda ang idulot sa ating mga kababayan, sa bansang Pilipinas, and of course sa mga partners. ‘Yun naman po ay isasaalang-alang,” Castro said during a Palace briefing.
She urged people with concerns to coordinate with the government agencies handling Pax Silica so possible problems could be addressed. Castro did not identify which provisions may be revised.
The Bases Conversion and Development Authority said it has held initial meetings with local governments and national agencies. Consultations remain ongoing, while ground assessments are being conducted to guide planning and decisions in the area.
Energy Secretary Sharon Garin said the hub would not affect electricity supply to households and businesses outside the project. BCDA said it is looking to develop dedicated power infrastructure for the hub’s expected requirements.
President Bongbong Marcos highlighted Pax Silica during his fifth State of the Nation Address as an AI-centered industrial ecosystem intended to place the Philippines in the global technology value chain.
The Philippines became Pax Silica’s 13th member in April 2026. The US-led initiative covers critical minerals, semiconductors, advanced manufacturing, computing and data infrastructure.
Scientists, farm workers and environmental advocates continue to challenge the project over displacement, water scarcity, pollution, mining expansion, food security, economic dependence, sovereignty and legal jurisdiction.
