Malacañang on Thursday expressed confidence that ongoing discussions surrounding the proposed Pax Silica project will not hurt investor sentiment, assuring the public that the administration is actively addressing all stakeholder concerns.
Speaking at a Palace briefing, Communications Undersecretary and Press Officer Claire Castro stated that the government remains open to adjusting project terms if revisions yield better outcomes for the Filipino people and international partners.
She emphasized that potential issues regarding local water and power supplies are already being factored into current evaluations.
”Kung sinuman po iyong ibang mayroong isyu patungkol sa diumano magiging problema sa suplay ng tubig, sa suplay ng kuryente, lahat pong ito ay isinasaalang-alang ng pamahalaan,” Castro said.
”May chance po na mabago ang ibang mga provisions, kung ano po ‘yung maaari pang mas maging magandang idulot sa ating mga kababayan sa bansang Pilipinas and of course sa mga partners. Yun naman po ay isasaalang-alang,” she added.
Addressing potential investor hesitation, Castro argued that fine-tuning the framework signals responsible governance and careful planning rather than instability. She urged concerned stakeholders to consult directly with relevant agencies to clarify details regarding the initiative.
Castro noted that the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) is actively conducting ground assessments and preliminary LGU consultations in New Clark City to guide decisions with reliable data.
”At present, BCDA is undertaking ground assessment activities in the area. These activities are being carried out to ensure that planning and decision-making are based on accurate assessment on the ground and are conducted in a responsible and orderly manner,” Castro said, citing the BCDA.
Keyed under the Luzon Economic Corridor, Pax Silica is designed as an advanced manufacturing hub aimed at boosting the country’s position in global semiconductor, AI, and critical mineral supply chains.
The BCDA estimates the project could eventually attract up to $70 billion in investments and generate 190,000 high-skilled jobs.