By Tracy Cabrera
DILIMAN, Quezon City — More than 70 organizations have added their voices to the growing opposition against the government’s plan to push through with the proposed establishment of an economic security zone (ESZ) in New Clark City, Tarlac, as well as its pursuit of backing the Washington-led Pax Silica global alliance for artificial intelligence (AI).
According to the Network Opposed to Pax Silica (NO to Pax Silica), which was launched on National Heroes Day at the Mary Hill School of Theology in Quezon City, if both the ESZ and AI hub projects materialize, many communities, mostly Aetas and farmers from Tarlac, will be gravely affected.
The Network’s call was strengthened by support from social and environmental activists, faith-based groups, youth and students, members of the scientific community, peace advocates, business groups and other concerned sectors.
“Our land, our resources, our environment, and the Filipino people hold far more value than developments that solely focus on shareholder profits and a frenzied artificial intelligence market with no promises of longevity or sustainable development,” Panatang Luntian coalition member and 2026 Miss Universe Philippines Beatrice Millan Windorski pointed out.
“This is why, as an environmental advocate and member of the Environmentalists Stand Against Corruption Alliance, I stand firmly with the Network Opposed to Pax Silica—NO to Pax Silica coalition,” Milan posted on Facebook and Instagram.
She added that the Philippines, as one of the world’s 18 mega-biodiverse countries, should not bear the brunt of a development with no transparency or clear data on its environmental impact.
“What we do know is that data centers generate a heat island effect, warming our already changing climate and consuming immense amounts of energy, water and resources in our already overburdened communities,” the beauty queen stressed.
In the meantime, a delegation from NO to Pax Silica will first visit indigenous peoples and farming communities that will be affected by the ESZ project in Capas, Tarlac.
The coalition also announced that it will hold public forums and discussions in schools, churches and communities about the issues and concerns surrounding the Pax Silica project to gain more support and ensure that Malacañang hears the clamor against Pax Silica.
ia/xf
