An artificial intelligence expert has urged the public to assess the proposed Pax Silica AI and Semiconductor Hub in New Clark City using verified information, as questions emerge over the project’s environmental impact, land use, and infrastructure requirements.
Cyrus Santiago, an AI visibility and implementation specialist, released an infographic titled “Pax Silica: Facts Over Fiction,” which summarizes information presented during a briefing by Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) president and CEO Joshua Bingcang.
“Projects of this scale naturally attract public attention and debate,” Santiago said. “That is both expected and necessary. However, informed discussion should be grounded in evidence, transparency, and publicly available information.”
The proposed 1,600-hectare development is being positioned as a civilian hub for AI, semiconductor manufacturing, and logistics.
Based on BCDA’s briefing, the development would not extract groundwater and would instead rely on surface water, reservoirs, recycled water, and a dedicated treatment facility.
The project’s initial power supply would include 500 megawatts of solar capacity, with wind and geothermal energy planned for later stages.
It would also use its proximity to Clark International Airport and the Port of Subic for logistics and connectivity.
BCDA said the proposed site is located entirely on land under its management pursuant to Republic Act 7227 and outside areas covered by recognized Certificates of Ancestral Domain Title.
The claims, however, remain subject to scrutiny as the project moves through planning, environmental review, regulatory approvals, and implementation.
“Not every concern raised about the project is misinformation, and legitimate questions deserve clear answers,” Santiago said.
“At the same time, we have a responsibility to separate verified facts from speculation. Healthy public discourse depends on both transparency and accuracy.”
Project proponents estimate that Pax Silica could generate more than 130,000 skilled jobs and attract investments in semiconductors, AI infrastructure, and advanced manufacturing.
Santiago said the project could also allow the Philippines to process locally sourced minerals into higher-value technology products instead of primarily exporting raw materials.
“The Philippines has long exported raw materials while importing higher-value technologies. Projects like Pax Silica present an opportunity to expand our advanced manufacturing capabilities and strengthen our economic resilience,” Santiago said.
“Whether that opportunity is realized will ultimately depend on responsible implementation, environmental stewardship, regulatory compliance, and continued public accountability.”
Santiago said the infographic was not intended to endorse or oppose the development but to provide a reference for assessing claims about it.
“I encourage everyone to examine the available evidence, ask informed questions, and engage in respectful dialogue,” he said. “The quality of our national conversation improves when facts remain at the center.”
