Go: Pax Silica won’t displace farmers, Ati community

National

FINANCE Secretary Frederick Go has rejected claims that the proposed Pax Silica project would displace farmers or members of the indigenous Aeta community, calling on the public to verify information before sharing reports about the initiative.

“There is no farmer that is being displaced in the 1,600 hectares,” Go said, dismissing what he described as misinformation surrounding the project.

He also urged the public to exercise caution when encountering reports about Pax Silica, particularly on social media.

“Please stop spreading” fake news, he said, stressing the need to understand the project before circulating information.

Go said Pax Silica is designed to establish an industrial and logistics ecosystem that will supply the technology sector, including industries producing cellphones, laptops, computers and other hardware, while supporting the broader artificial intelligence (AI) ecosystem.

“I think this is a generational project,” he said.

The Philippines is the 24th country to join Pax Silica, after 23 other countries had already signed up for the initiative.

According to Go, the participating countries are working together to develop an international industrial supply chain for AI and other advanced technologies.

He clarified that Pax Silica is only one component of the broader Luzon Economic Corridor program.

The proposed Pax Silica development covers 1,600 hectares, which Go said represents only a small portion of the much larger corridor program.

“It’s just one component,” he said.

Go said the government’s efforts to clarify the project are part of its broader goal of improving the business environment, making investments more predictable and encouraging companies to establish and expand operations in the Philippines.

Drawing on his 35 years in the private sector, Go said improving the ease of doing business should be based on concrete measures rather than broad assurances.

“We in government strive to give you the confidence to invest, succeed, and grow right where you are,” he said.

He expressed hope that clearer information about major government initiatives would strengthen investor confidence and give businesses a more positive outlook on the country’s economic future.

“I hope that I leave you with more confidence, more optimism, and a picture of where our country is headed, which is a future filled with opportunity and promise,” Go said.(MyTVCebu)