Pax Silica project in PH to be built within designated zone, Palace says

Facilities for the proposed U.S.-backed Pax Silica project in the Philippines will be built within designated development areas to avoid affecting Indigenous Peoples (IPs) and farming communities, Malacañang said during a press briefing on Wednesday, Nov. 4.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is aware of concerns over the project's potential impact on Aeta communities and local residents, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said, according to a Philippine News Agency (PNA) report.

Castro said the proposed development covers more than 6,000 hectares, with around 3,000 hectares designated as a buildable zone. The remaining area is intended for Aeta residents and other communities within the site.

She added that government assistance would be available should relocation become necessary.

The statement followed concerns that at least 200 Aeta residents could be affected by the project.

The framework agreement for the initiative remains under negotiation, with the Philippine government awaiting a response from the United States on its draft proposal, according to the PNA report.

The Bases Conversion and Development Authority and the Department of Trade and Industry have submitted a draft framework agreement to the Office of the President, which will serve as the basis for further negotiations.