The Philippines and the US are moving full steam ahead on the proposed Pax Silica industrial hub in New Clark City, aiming to secure billions in long-term AI and tech investments that transcend political cycles.
US Under Secretary of State for Economic Affairs Jacob Helberg said the agreement kicks off a two-year negotiation window to ensure investor protections, policy stability, and predictability for companies pouring capital into artificial intelligence, digital infrastructure, and advanced manufacturing.
“Investors spending billions on expensive projects need assurance that their investments will outlast administrations in both our countries,” Helberg said during a site visit. “We are focused on predictability, certainty, speed, and scale.”
The hub, part of the Pax Silica initiative, is designed to bolster AI-driven industries, cutting-edge technologies, and strategic economic cooperation between the Philippines and the US.
A site marker was unveiled by Helberg, Trade Undersecretary Ceferino Rodolfo, and BCDA President Joshua Bingcang.
At least 10 companies have expressed interest in sectors ranging from robotics and electronics to AI training, renewable energy, and water management.
Rodolfo stressed that the Philippines aims to move beyond exporting raw minerals, instead processing them into “green metals” and higher-value “tech metals” crucial for AI infrastructure.
“This initiative is about securing supply chains for the AI ecosystem—not missiles or weapons,” Rodolfo said. He added that developing domestic processing capabilities would elevate the Philippines in the global tech value chain and advance long-term industrialization goals.
Bingcang confirmed the deal with the US will operate under the Investors’ Lease Act and BCDA Law, with no special treatment afforded beyond standard business development contracts.
With this framework, both nations are betting on a high-tech future—and a multibillion-dollar boost for New Clark City.
