The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), a government corporation in the Philippines created to transform former US military bases and idle government land into economic growth centers, has submitted the legal framework for the planned Pax Silica hub in New Clark City to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
This is according to Palace Press Officer and Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro, who relayed an update directly from BCDA during a press briefing with the Malacañang Press Corps on Tuesday.
“BCDA has submitted to the President through proper channels the legal framework governing the use of the 1,620 hectare advanced manufacturing park in New Clark City. As BCDA and its US Development partner continue to discuss the details of the partnership agreement, the expected signing of the agreement is before the end of 2026,” said Castro.
The Palace Press Officer said that so far BCDA had only mentioned submission through the correct channels and that it wasn’t clear if the President had seen it, but added that she would ask.
Pax Silica is a US-led initiative that aims to secure supply chains for semiconductors, rare earth materials, and AI. As of September 2026 there are 25 member countries including the Philippines, which joined in April 2026.
Under the Pax Silica banner, the Philippines plans to establish an AI industrial hub in New Clark City and other projects, including an economic zone solely for data centers. However, as reported by GMA News Online, there are concerns that the project would displace indigenous people and cause environmental damage. The project has also drawn criticisms regarding the lack of transparency.
However, the president has said the project will create jobs and that the government is sensitive to the public’s concerns.
“We are very sensitive to that. That’s not something that people should worry about. We are very sensitive about such cultural concerns and those are very much part of the discussions. No, let me assure everyone that that’s not something that we are going to allow to be put at risk,” said Marcos Jr.
The Pax Silica Forum has heralded the New Clark City hub as a glimpse of the future.
“If New Clark City succeeds, it provides a model that could be replicated elsewhere: large-scale industrial zones combining energy, infrastructure, manufacturing, technology, logistics, investment and skilled labour, all connected to a trusted international supply chain,” Michael Sharpe, Pax Silica Forum Executive Director, said in August.
The industrial hub aims to attract semiconductor, AI and advanced manufacturing investment as the US and other Pax Silica members seek to reduce reliance on China for technology.