President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday threw his administration’s full backing behind the proposed Pax Silica Industrial Hub, touting the US-led project as a cornerstone of the Philippines’ push to become a regional artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced manufacturing hub, even as environmental, labour and science groups question its impact on the environment.

In his fifth State of the Nation Address (SoNA), Marcos said the Pax Silica Industrial Hub would anchor the country’s participation in the global AI and technology value chain by creating high-value industries and quality jobs.

“A product of the 23-member strong and US-led Pax Silica Initiative, the Pax Silica Industrial Hub will create an ecosystem that will have AI at its core. It will bring quality jobs to our people, accelerate our industrial competitiveness and revitalize our economy,” Marcos said.

Advanced center

He added that the hub would serve as “an advanced manufacturing and logistics center in the global AI and technology value chain” under the Luzon Economic Corridor.

The proposed 1,620-hectare economic security zone in New Clark City, Tarlac, is expected to host industries focused on artificial intelligence, semiconductor manufacturing and critical mineral processing.

The Philippines is among 24 signatories to the US-led Pax Silica Initiative, which seeks to strengthen global supply chains for AI and semiconductor technologies.