The Philippines and the US are targeting a groundbreaking within the year for a planned 4,000-acre Economic Security Zone in the industrial district of New Clark City, according to Joshua Bingcang of the Bases Conversion and Development Authority.
Bingcang said both governments will assemble technical teams to carry out site assessments, surveys, and feasibility studies that will shape the project’s master plan, investment requirements, and phased rollout.
The development is expected to proceed under a public-private partnership framework, opening the door for foreign and domestic investors.
The project forms part of the U.S.-led Pax Silica Initiative, which aims to establish a secure and resilient supply chain for semiconductors, critical minerals, and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence. “This anchors the Philippines in a trusted global network for next-generation industries,” Bingcang said.
Central to the concept is “Golden Node,” a collaborative platform designed to bring together technology firms, research institutions, and government agencies to accelerate AI-driven investments and industrial development.
Officials say this model could position the country as a regional hub for high-value manufacturing and innovation.
The Philippines formally joined Pax Silica on April 16, strengthening its role in global electronics production and supply chain diversification. The proposed New Clark hub—designed to support American and allied supply chains—would be the first facility of its kind under the initiative.
Industry leaders have welcomed the move. Dan Lachica, head of the Semiconductor and Electronics Industries in the Philippines Inc., said the project could deepen the country’s integration into global supply chains, despite limited details so far on investments, technologies, and job creation.
“This should be positive for the semiconductor and electronics sector,” Lachica said.
