The proposed PAX Silica Industrial Hub in New Clark City, Tarlac is being presented as a project that can bring more jobs, investments, and technology to the Philippines. The government says it could create more than 130,000 jobs and attract billions of dollars in investments. However, even if these benefits sound promising, we should also consider what we might lose in exchange. A project this large should not only be about money and technology. We should also think about the people, land, water, and environment that could be affected.

One of the biggest concerns is agriculture and the livelihood of local communities. The proposed hub covers around 1,600 hectares in Capas, Tarlac. Groups opposing the project have raised concerns about its possible effects on farmers and Indigenous communities in the area. Some residents in barangays such as O'Donnell, Aranguren, and Santa Lucia have reportedly been identified as people who could be affected by the project.

For many Filipino families, farming is not just a job. It is how they earn money and provide food for their families. If development affects their livelihood, giving them new jobs does not automatically solve the problem. We need to ask: Is economic growth worth it if some local communities have to suffer?

Another concern is the project's possible use of water and electricity. PAX Silica is planned to include AI infrastructure, data centers, semiconductor facilities, and other high-tech industries. These facilities can require large amounts of resources. Scientists and environmental groups have questioned how the project will manage its water and energy needs without affecting farmers and nearby communities.

There is also the question of whether ordinary Filipinos will truly benefit. The government says PAX Silica could create more than 130,000 high-quality jobs and attract around $40 billion to $70 billion in investments. These opportunities are good, but the government should make sure that Filipino workers and local communities will actually receive these benefits. Filipinos should have access to the jobs, training, and opportunities created by the project instead of simply watching foreign companies benefit from our resources.

The government has also said that farmers and Indigenous Peoples will not be displaced and that the project will be built within areas already designated for development. However, there are still groups questioning whether the project's possible effects on agriculture, water, and communities have been fully addressed. Because of this, the public deserves clear information, proper consultation, and strong environmental protections before the project moves forward.

We are not against technology. We are not against jobs. We are not against progress. We simply believe that progress should not come at the expense of Filipino people and our environment.

The Philippines needs development, but it should be development that is fair and responsible. Before we choose a future filled with technology, we should make sure that we are not sacrificing the people and resources that make that future possible.

Our future, our resources, our people—our choice. Reject PAX Silica.

If you'd like to know more, you can visit:

https://www.thesummitexpress.com/2026/08/pax-silica-displacement-aetas-farmers-palace-denies.html​

https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2026/07/27/2545030/scientists-group-debunks-claims-pax-silica-​

project/amp​https://www.business-humanrights.org/en/latest-news/push-for-pax-silicaproject-criticizedby-local-groups-raising-risk-to-environment/