THE Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) on Monday acknowledged Sen. Imee Marcos’ call for an investigation into complaints connected to the Pax Silica project.
Pax Silica is a United States-led international coalition launched in December 2025 to secure global supply chains for artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and critical minerals while countering China’s tech-manufacturing dominance.
Its 24 member countries include Japan, South Korea, Australia, and the Philippines — which is hosting a 4,000-acre (1,618 hectares) economic security zone in New Clark City in Tarlac, providing critical mineral and energy resources, and leveraging its existing semiconductor assembly workforce.
On Sunday, Senator Marcos pushed for a probe into complaints from farmers who said they were being intimidated and told to stop planting in the project site. She also urged the BCDA to explain the project’s effects to residents before proceeding with any land surveying or acquisition.
The BCDA said it has heard the concerns raised by the senator, farmers, and local communities, and welcomed Senate oversight, adding that it was ready to provide the facts needed for a transparent and fair investigation.
The agency said it would meet this week with Capas, Tarlac Mayor Boots Rodriguez to discuss Pax Silica, following her request for dialogue and more information on the project for the municipal government.
BCDA added that it would also gather other local government units and stakeholders to hear their concerns and discuss the way forward.
The agency maintained that New Clark City’s development would bring more opportunities for surrounding communities as it grows, including for farmers and Ayta communities nearby.
BCDA said it has designated areas within New Clark City for modern agriculture, including a 50-hectare agricultural zone, as well as the 10-hectare Ayta Ethnobotanical Center launched last year.
The center is meant to support 300 Agta farmers from Capas and Bamban, and is designed to expand to 50 hectares. These initiatives would help boost employment and strengthen sustainable livelihoods for farmers and Ayta communities in the area, the BCDA said.
The agency added it has designated relocation areas for affected households within New Clark City itself to minimize disruption to residents’ daily lives and ensure they remain included in and benefit from the development.
“BCDA remains committed to ensuring that development is inclusive, responsible, and creates lasting opportunities for every community that calls New Clark City home,” it said.
