Catholic groups urge consultation on Philippine development projects

Catholic social action groups in the Philippines are calling for increased scrutiny and consultation regarding large-scale development projects that may impact indigenous communities and the environment.

Bishop Gerardo Alminaza, president of Caritas Philippines, has urged broader dialogue concerning the proposed Pax Silica industrial and technology hub in New Clark City, Tarlac. The 1,620-hectare project aims to attract investments in semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and advanced manufacturing. Alminaza expressed concerns that the project is moving too quickly without sufficient study of its impact on land, water, and the Aeta communities. He noted that the hub could require up to 90 million liters of water and 3 gigawatts of power daily, posing challenges for a nation facing energy and water insecurity.

Separately, the Social Action Center of the Prelature of Infanta has renewed calls to protect the Sierra Madre mountain range. The group emphasized that development must not come at the expense of environmental integrity or the rights of Dumagat communities. They called for independent scientific assessments of various projects, including quarrying and dam developments, to ensure public safety and the protection of local livelihoods.