Pax Silica Hub in the Philippines Faces Environmental Concerns Amid U.S. Partnership
The Pax Silica Hub, a planned high-tech industrial zone in New Clark City, Tarlac, is being developed as part of a partnership between the Philippines and the United States. The project aims to attract investments in semiconductor manufacturing, artificial intelligence (AI), and other advanced technology industries. Envisioned as a 1,600-hectare AI-focused industrial hub, it is expected to support critical mineral processing and the production of components for AI and semiconductor technologies. The hub is anticipated to generate jobs and create additional revenue and tax opportunities for the Philippines. However, environmental and social concerns have been raised by groups such as Kalikasan and the Makabayan bloc. These concerns include the potential environmental impact due to high water and energy consumption, noise pollution, and the displacement of indigenous Aetas and local farmers. The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) has countered these claims, stating that the hub will primarily ...