Photo By: BCDA
New Clark City, Tarlac – The Philippines took a major step toward becoming a regional hub for artificial intelligence and advanced industries after a high-level United States delegation visited the proposed 4,000-acre Pax Silica development site in New Clark City.
The delegation was led by Jacob Helberg and included representatives from the U.S. government, the World Bank, and several leading American technology and infrastructure firms.
During the visit, officials unveiled a ceremonial marker for the proposed development site, symbolizing growing cooperation between the Philippines and the United States under the Luzon Economic Corridor initiative.
Photo By: BCDA
The marker unveiling was led by Helberg together with Board of Investments Managing Head Ceferino “Perry” Rodolfo and BCDA President and CEO Joshua Bingcang.
Officials described the proposed Pax Silica project as a future economic and technology hub designed to support investments in artificial intelligence, semiconductors, digital infrastructure, and advanced manufacturing.
Helberg said the initiative addresses vulnerabilities in global supply chains by creating reliable and diversified investment locations in strategic regions.
“When 90% of a critical input comes from one country, you don’t have a supply chain, you have a hostage chain,” Helberg said during the inspection.
Photo By: BCDA
He added that the planned development in New Clark City aims to combine American reliability with Asia’s rapid growth potential.
For his part, Bingcang emphasized the direct economic impact of the project on Filipino communities, particularly in Central Luzon.
“Every rail line, energy project, and investment in this corridor means quality jobs for Filipinos in Central Luzon and beyond,” Bingcang said.
The project supports the economic agenda of Ferdinand Marcos Jr., which prioritizes the expansion of innovation-driven industries and the attraction of high-value investments to the country.
Authorities said the proposed Pax Silica development is expected to strengthen the Philippines’ position as an emerging destination for technology-driven industries and future-ready investments in the Asia-Pacific region.