Converge ICT Solutions Inc. is considering joining the long-delayed ₱2.5-billion information and communications technology (ICT) project in New Clark City, Tarlac, aiming to help build the digital backbone for the planned Pax Silica artificial intelligence (AI) hub.
Converge Chief Executive Officer Dennis Anthony Uy expressed strong interest in supporting the 1,619-hectare industrial zone, noting that while manufacturing AI components falls outside his core operations, his firm can power the underlying network.
“Because this is mostly manufacturing AI components, it’s not my stake. Maybe I can provide the connectivity, provide the AI infrastructure for manufacturing facilities,” Uy told reporters.
Confirming that Converge is actively evaluating the opportunity, Uy underscored the necessity of foundational digital networks for high-tech zones.
“If there’s no infrastructure, how can you become Pax Silica?” he emphasized.
The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) has struggled to secure a private partner for the project, which involves a 25-year joint venture (extendable for another 25 years) to operate a shared fiber network. The BCDA’s third attempt to auction the ₱2.5-billion venture failed after attracting no bidders, making a private partner urgent as the country prepares for the Pax Silica initiative—an international alliance aimed at securing global AI and semiconductor supply chains.
Uy noted that participating would be a natural fit, given Converge’s experience delivering network connectivity during the 2019 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games at the same site. He reiterated that reliable power, physical assets, and robust fiber lines are essential to drawing high-value electronics manufacturers.
Beyond New Clark City, Converge is partnering with PLDT Inc. and Globe Telecom Inc. on a $500-million (approx. ₱30.63 billion) joint subsea cable project aimed at bridging nationwide connectivity gaps and supporting rising AI demands.
Uy shared that he pitched the subsea project during a Private Sector Advisory Council meeting with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
He confirmed the telecom consortium is ready to begin construction on the 24-month build, noting the system will also feature digital acoustic sensing capabilities to aid national security and monitor seismic activity.