Philippines Formally Joins US-Led Pax Silica Declaration, Unveils Major AI Hub
The Philippine government has taken a decisive step to cement its role in the global technology landscape by formally joining the United States-led Pax Silica Declaration. This strategic move coincides with the announcement of a massive new industrial hub dedicated to artificial intelligence innovation and investment, to be established within New Clark City in Tarlac province.
A Strategic Partnership for Future Industries
The Pax Silica Declaration is a multinational initiative focused on constructing a secure, resilient, and innovation-driven silicon supply chain. This comprehensive framework encompasses critical minerals, semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and advanced manufacturing. By becoming a signatory, the Philippines signals its intent to transition from a peripheral supporter of global industries to an active architect of future technological ecosystems.
"By joining Pax Silica, the Philippines is ensuring that our mineral resources and strategic location are not simply supporting global industries from the margins, but are actively harnessed to build the industries of the future," declared Finance Secretary Frederick Go in an official statement. This participation aligns perfectly with the Marcos administration's overarching National AI Strategy Roadmap, which aims to establish the Philippines as a regional AI powerhouse.
New Clark City: The Designated "Golden Node"
The centerpiece of this initiative is the development of a 1,618-hectare property within New Clark City. This area has been designated as a "Golden Node," a pioneering model for AI-native investment acceleration hubs. Strategically situated within the Luzon Economic Corridor, this Coordination Office is the first of its kind established under the Pax Silica framework.
US Undersecretary of State for Economic Affairs, Jacob Helberg, emphasized the forward-looking nature of the project. "The Golden Node is not about recreating the factories of the last century. It is about building the manufacturing ecosystems of the next century – AI-native from day one, anchored in the rule of law, and integrated into a network of trusted nations that will define global supply chain resilience for decades to come," he stated.
Transforming the Local and Global Landscape
Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) President and CEO Joshua Bingcang highlighted the transformative potential of this development for New Clark City and the nation. He described it as placing the city at the epicenter of a pivotal shift towards a more innovative and future-ready Philippines.
"By establishing this Golden Node, we stand to position New Clark City as a vital link in the global supply chain for advanced technologies and next-generation manufacturing," Bingcang explained. "On the ground, this will translate into more quality job opportunities for Filipinos and greater participation of local enterprises in the growing innovation-driven economy across the globe."
To catalyze this economic cooperation, the BCDA will provide significant support, including a two-year grace period on lease payments, which will be treated as an unconditional in-kind contribution. The annual lease rate commencing from the third year will be finalized in a subsequent agreement.
This major AI hub development reinforces New Clark City's foundational vision as the Philippines' first smart, green, and disaster-resilient metropolis, now poised to become a cornerstone of the nation's technological and economic advancement on the world stage.
