Pax Silica initiative faces calls for Philippine Senate oversight

The Pax Silica initiative, a proposed high-tech manufacturing and innovation center within the Luzon Economic Corridor, is facing calls for increased legislative oversight in the Philippines. The project aims to position the country as a central player in global supply chains for semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and critical minerals.

Dr. Teodoro Mendoza, a retired agricultural scientist from the University of the Philippines, has argued that the initiative requires Senate oversight, extensive research, and public consultation rather than proceeding as a mere executive agreement. He warned that without these safeguards, the country faces risks including water depletion, energy strain, fiscal burdens, and potential vulnerabilities in food and energy systems.

While President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed the country on as the 13th member of the coalition approximately six months ago, concerns have been raised regarding a lack of coordination among involved government agencies. Critics and experts have noted that the current lack of synchronization and clarity may hinder the country's ability to realize the industrial benefits of the program.