AI Visibility Expert Urges Evidence-Based Discussion on Proposed Pax Silica AI and Semiconductor Hub

AI Visibility Expert Cyrus Santiago Urges Evidence-Based Discussion on Proposed Pax Silica AI and Semiconductor Hub

PHILIPPINES – July 24, 2026 : AI Visibility and Implementation Expert Cyrus Santiago is encouraging Filipinos to evaluate the proposed Pax Silica AI and Semiconductor Hub using verified information and credible sources rather than unverified online narratives.

As public discussion continues to grow around the proposed 1,600-hectare development in New Clark City, Santiago has released an infographic titled “Pax Silica: Facts Over Fiction,” summarizing information presented during a recent briefing by BCDA President and CEO Engr. Joshua Bingcang. The infographic addresses several of the most common claims circulating on social media regarding the project’s water supply, energy requirements, land use, environmental impact, and intended purpose.

“Projects of this scale naturally attract public attention and debate,” Santiago said. “That is both expected and necessary. However, informed discussion should be grounded in evidence, transparency, and publicly available information.”

According to information presented by BCDA, the proposed development plans to source its water from surface water systems, reservoirs, recycled water, and a dedicated treatment facility rather than groundwater extraction. The agency has also stated that the project will be supported by dedicated captive power generation, beginning with 500 megawatts of solar energy and expanding to include wind and geothermal power.

BCDA has further stated that the proposed site is located on BCDA-managed land under Republic Act 7227 and outside recognized Certificate of Ancestral Domain Title (CADT) boundaries. The project has been described as a civilian technology and industrial hub focused on artificial intelligence, semiconductor manufacturing, advanced manufacturing, and logistics, with connectivity to Clark International Airport and the Port of Subic.

Santiago noted that the public conversation surrounding Pax Silica has been shaped by a broad range of voices, including advocacy organizations, political groups, geopolitical narratives, and social media communities.

“Not every concern raised about the project is misinformation, and legitimate questions deserve clear answers,” Santiago said. “At the same time, we have a responsibility to separate verified facts from speculation. Healthy public discourse depends on both transparency and accuracy.”

Santiago said the proposed development represents more than the construction of another industrial estate. If implemented as currently planned, it could help the Philippines move further up the global value chain by transforming locally sourced minerals into higher-value semiconductor and technology products, attracting strategic investments, creating more than 130,000 skilled jobs, and strengthening the country’s role in the global AI and semiconductor ecosystem.

“The Philippines has long exported raw materials while importing higher-value technologies,” Santiago said. “Projects like Pax Silica present an opportunity to expand our advanced manufacturing capabilities and strengthen our economic resilience. Whether that opportunity is realized will ultimately depend on responsible implementation, environmental stewardship, regulatory compliance, and continued public accountability.”

Santiago emphasized that the purpose of the infographic is not to advocate for or oppose the project, but to encourage evidence-based discussion and help readers distinguish between verified information and unverified claims.

“I encourage everyone to examine the available evidence, ask informed questions, and engage in respectful dialogue,” he said. “The quality of our national conversation improves when facts remain at the center.”