Pax Silica semiconductor initiative selects New Clark City for manufacturing hub

The Pax Silica initiative, a US-led effort to secure semiconductor and rare earth element supply chains, has designated over 1,600 hectares in New Clark City, Tarlac, for a manufacturing hub. The project aims to support artificial intelligence data centers and could potentially attract $70 billion in investment and create 190,000 jobs.

To support the hub, the Philippine Department of Transportation has approved an extension of the North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) to New Clark City. The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) confirmed that the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) has issued a ‘no objection’ for the railway extension to undergo feasibility studies.

However, the project faces local concerns regarding land rights. Indigenous Aeta Hungey tribal leaders have expressed uncertainty regarding the impact on their traditional lands and livelihoods. The BCDA has previously issued warnings to local residents that the development could affect occupied lands in the Capas, Tarlac area.