A leading advocate for business progress has weighed in on Pax Silica, citing it as “the catalyst for a modern Philippine industrialization strategy.”
Rene Romero, a veteran business leader, said that the project can propel the Philippines to a global position that are currently enjoyed by developed neighbor countries like Singapore, South Korea, Japan, and Malaysia.
“It presents the Philippines with a rare opportunity to launch a new era of industrialization and strengthen our position in the global technology and manufacturing economy,” Romero said.
Pax Silica, he said, can be a “flagship industrial and technology ecosystem of the Luzon Economic Corridor (LEC).”
His statement was contained in a message sent to PNN.
He also expressed support to Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) as its New Clark City in Capas Tarlac will host the 1,620-hectare for the project that will harness and process minerals and rare earth elements.
“As the government-owned and controlled corporation responsible for developing New Clark City, the BCDA Bases Conversion has a pivotal role to play. Beyond serving as the project’s host, IT should act as the master developer and strategic integrator of the country’s premier industrial and innovation hub,” he said.
The BCDA, he said, should closely coordinate and direct efforts with the DTI, BOI, PEZA, DOE, DOST, DENR, DICT, TESDA, CHED, local governments, universities, research institutions, and the private sector.
Romero also called on government to address issues and concerns that may hamper the development of Pax Silica.
Issues revolving on environmental protection, sustainable resource management, indigenous peoples, affected communities, national security, transparency, and public accountability “should be addressed through rigorous technical studies, meaningful public consultation, strict compliance with Philippine laws, and transparent project governance.”
“Industrialization and responsible development are not competing objectives, they must advance together,” Romero said.
Romero also believes that Pax Silica is an opportunity for Philippines to occupy a higher place in the value chain.
“For too long, the Philippines has exported raw materials, imported higher-value products, and lost many of its most talented professionals to opportunities abroad. Pax Silica offers an opportunity to begin reversing that trend by creating industries that add value locally, develop Filipino talent, strengthen domestic enterprises, and generate globally competitive employment,” he furthered.
He also called for an open mind towards the project which he said should weigh in related issues.
“We should neither reject this opportunity prematurely nor embrace it uncritically. Instead, we should work together to ensure that Pax Silica is implemented with the highest standards of governance, environmental stewardship, national security, transparency, and community participation.”
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