CAPAS, Tarlac — The local government and residents of Capas are now expressing deep concern regarding the planned Pax Silica project, which is set to rise within the New Clark City (NCC) area.
In an interview during the radio program hosted by Ted Failon on 105.9 True FM on August 6, Capas Mayor Roseller “Boots” Rodriguez revealed that they had already sent an official letter to Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) President and CEO Engr. Joshua Bingcang. The letter requested an initial dialogue and sought to convey the sentiments of the community.
According to Mayor Rodriguez, the local government was caught completely off guard when they learned about the project an AI data hub and mineral processing infrastructure only through a groundbreaking ceremony held at New Clark City. He emphasized that no prior consultation had been made with the local government of Capas.
“Wala pong konsultasyon na nangyari tungkol dito sa proyektong ito at kami ay nabibigla na lamang… Doon ko pa lamang nalaman na mayroon palang ganitong proyekto na gagawin dito sa bayan ng Capas,” Mayor Rodriguez stated.
Affected Farmers and the IP Community
The mayor disclosed that following their letter, an initial meeting had already taken place between him and Engr. Bingcang, during which an overview of Pax Silica was presented.
During that briefing, the issue of affected sectors in the area was directly raised. Bingcang reportedly responded that while some farmers would be affected, no Indigenous People (IP) community would be displaced by the project.
“Oo, may maaapektuhang farmers; pero walang maaapektuhang IP community,” according to Bingcang’s statement.
Legal Basis and Social Acceptability
Although the mayor acknowledged that the BCDA holds autonomy within the Clark Special Economic Zone where local building permits or clearances from the municipality are not required he firmly asserted that the matter is different when it concerns the environment and the welfare of the people.
Rodriguez emphasized that under the Local Government Code, any national project with potential environmental and community impacts is obligated to undergo public consultation with the concerned Local Government Unit (LGU) to achieve social acceptability.
Next Steps
The mayor clarified that the town of Capas is not opposed to progress or the new employment opportunities that may arise. However, he stressed that such development must follow proper procedures and involve transparent communication with the citizens.
A follow-up meeting is expected to take place on Tuesday, August 11, in Capas, where the BCDA, LGU, barangay officials, and various sectors will come together to clarify the general framework agreement and final details of the Pax Silica project.
