Development of the planned US-led Pax Silica artificial intelligence (AI) hub in Central Luzon is expected to begin within three to five years, covering an initial 500 hectares of the 1,620-hectare site at New Clark City in Tarlac.
Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) President and CEO Joshua Bingcang said the long-term project is envisioned to become a major manufacturing site for AI-related technologies, with full development targeted over 30 years.
The initiative is projected to help boost Philippine exports to around USD200 billion and attract more semiconductor and AI-related firms to the country.
Bingcang clarified that the project will focus primarily on industrial activities rather than hyperscale data centers. Any data centers within the site would mainly support semiconductor firms operating there.
Trade and Industry Undersecretary and Board of Investments managing head Ceferino Rodolfo said the Philippines joined the 23-country Pax Silica coalition to increase the value of its mineral and semiconductor industries, particularly by moving up the technology and manufacturing value chains.
He said the non-binding initiative promotes coordinated investments and positions participating countries as trusted partners in the growing global AI industry. (PNA)
