Manila: The government will ensure that transactions for the Pax Silica initiative will not disadvantage the Philippines or its people, Malaca±ang said Wednesday. Speaking to reporters, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro emphasized that President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has taken a firm stance that investments for Pax Silica should benefit the country without compromising Filipinos' welfare and rights.

According to Philippines News Agency, Castro's statement came after the United States imposed hefty tariffs on Canada following a failed trade deal negotiation. Addressing concerns about safeguards for the Philippines under the US-led Pax Silica initiative, Castro assured that the government would not tolerate any actions that could violate Philippine laws or infringe upon the rights of Filipinos. She reiterated the President's commitment to ensuring that the initiative aligns with national laws and respects the rights of citizens.

Marcos previously described the Pax Silica initiative as a promising opportunity, noting its potential to create job opportunities and stimulate economic growth in the Philippines. He expressed openness to collaborating with countries such as the US, European nations, China, Japan, South Korea, Canada, and Australia. The administration's priority, he stressed, is to ensure that investments lead to job creation, skills development, technology transfer, and training for Filipinos.

Pax Silica is envisioned as a high-tech manufacturing and innovation hub within the Luzon Economic Corridor, aiming to position the Philippines as a key player in global supply chains for semiconductors, artificial intelligence (AI), and critical minerals. The development, proposed to be situated in New Clark City, is expected to generate up to 190,000 high-quality jobs for Filipinos, contributing significantly to the nation's economic landscape.