THIS STATEMENT reflects my personal views and should not be construed as the official position of any organization with which I am affiliated.
As someone who has spent many years serving in the chamber of commerce and industry movement and in the Central Luzon Regional Development Council, I have witnessed firsthand how difficult it is to attract foreign investments to the Philippines. Over the years, I have participated in countless investment missions, business forums, and discussions with international investors. Time and again, I have heard the same questions and concerns about our country’s competitiveness, infrastructure, regulatory environment, power supply, logistics, and ease of doing business.
Unfortunately, these concerns often lead investors to choose our neighboring countries such as Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand instead of the Philippines. While we possess tremendous potential, we have repeatedly struggled to convert that potential into actual investments that generate jobs and economic growth.
That is why I view the PAX SILICA project differently.
For the first time in a long while, we are not simply trying to convince investors to come. They are already expressing a strong desire to invest in the Philippines, particularly in Central Luzon and, more specifically, in New Clark City, Tarlac. This is a rare opportunity that we should study carefully and approach with both optimism and prudence.
I have read many articles and commentaries outlining the perceived disadvantages and risks of the project. I respect these concerns because many of them are legitimate and deserve serious attention. However, after studying the issues, I have also asked myself an important question: Are these concerns truly impossible to address?
Personally, I believe they are not.
Most of the issues being raised whether they involve environmental protection, water resources, power supply, governance, national security, or community impact are matters that can be managed through sound planning, strict regulation, transparent governance, and faithful implementation of our laws.
If the Philippine Government remains true to its commitments, enforces our laws without exception, and ensures that every safeguard is fully implemented, I do not see these concerns as reasons to reject the project outright. Rather, they should serve as guideposts to ensure that the project is implemented responsibly and that its benefits are equitably shared by the Filipino people.
In fact, instead of simply opposing the project, I believe all stakeholders including the private sector, civil society, local communities, and concerned organizations—should actively participate in monitoring its implementation. Constructive engagement and vigilant oversight will do far more to protect the public interest than outright rejection without exploring the opportunities the project may bring.
Based on statements made by BCDA officials, plans are already being considered to address key infrastructure concerns. Water requirements are expected to be supported through rainwater harvesting and sustainable water management systems, while power requirements are planned to come from dedicated energy facilities with a strong emphasis on renewable energy. If these commitments are fulfilled, they can complement the original master development plan of New Clark City and help accelerate the development of modern infrastructure that will benefit future investments as well.
Beyond the immediate project, I also see a much larger strategic opportunity.
PAX SILICA is not merely about artificial intelligence or semiconductor manufacturing. It represents a partnership with twenty-four countries that are among the world’s leaders in technology, innovation, advanced manufacturing, logistics, and investment. Such partnerships can eventually lead to greater collaboration not only in AI but also in trade, education, agriculture, tourism, research, infrastructure, and many other sectors. Becoming part of this trusted economic network could significantly strengthen the Philippines’ position in the global economy.
For these reasons, I personally support the government’s efforts to make PAX SILICA a reality. However, my support is not unconditional. It is founded on the expectation that every legitimate concern will be properly addressed, that Philippine sovereignty and national interests will always come first, that environmental and social safeguards will be strictly enforced, and that the long-term benefits of the project will primarily accrue to the Filipino people.
Economic development should never come at the expense of our sovereignty, our environment, or our communities. But neither should fear prevent us from pursuing opportunities that have the potential to transform our nation.
The challenge before us is not to decide whether development should happen. The challenge is to ensure that it happens responsibly, transparently, sustainably, and in a manner that creates lasting prosperity for future generations of Filipinos.
That is why, at this point, I choose to support PAX SILICA, not blindly, but cautiously, responsibly, and with confidence that, if implemented properly, it can become one of the most transformative economic initiatives in our country’s history.
