MANILA, Philippines – Malacañang has assured the public that the proposed Pax Silica project in New Clark City will protect the country's national interests, the environment, and host communities amid growing public concerns.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. remains committed to ensuring that every agreement related to the project complies with Philippine laws and upholds national sovereignty.
“Sinisigurado po ng Pangulo na lahat po ng gagawin ay naaayon sa batas at hindi po maaaring makasira ito ng ating environment o maka-displace man ng ating mga kababayan nang walang anumang kapalit,” Castro said during a Palace press briefing.
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Pax Silica is a United States-led coalition of more than 30 participating countries that aims to strengthen global supply chains for artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and critical minerals.
Under the initiative, the Philippines has designated a 1,620-hectare site in New Clark City, Capas, Tarlac as the proposed location of an advanced manufacturing and innovation hub.
The project has gained support for its potential to attract investments and create high-value industries, but it has also sparked concerns over water resources, environmental protection, land rights, and the possible displacement of local communities.
Castro said Malacañang sought clarification from the National Water Resources Board after questions about the project's water requirements circulated on social media.
Citing the NWRB, she said available water sources in the project area are sufficient to meet the project's needs without affecting the supply for nearby communities.
She added that the NWRB, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, and the Bases Conversion and Development Authority will jointly monitor water allocation to ensure sustainable and environmentally responsible use.
Castro also said the project must secure an Environmental Impact Statement and an Environmental Management Plan before implementation, while environmental compliance will be regularly monitored by the Environmental Management Bureau and Multipartite Monitoring Teams.
Addressing concerns over foreign control and possible farmer displacement, Castro reiterated President Marcos' commitment to protecting Philippine sovereignty and said affected farmers would not lose their livelihoods if relocation becomes necessary.
— The Summit Express
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