CAPAS, Tarlac — The local government of Capas has formally sought the intervention of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. regarding the proposed Pax Silica Project, an AI data hub and mineral processing facility planned for construction within New Clark City, which falls under the territorial jurisdiction of the municipality.
In a letter dated August 10, 2026, Mayor Roseller “Boots” Rodriguez invoked specific provisions of the Local Government Code of 1991 (RA 7160), particularly Sections 26 and 27, which mandate consultation with affected Local Government Units (LGUs) and approval from the Sangguniang Bayan before any project with environmental impact is implemented.
“While we fully recognize the national government’s commitment to advancing digital infrastructure and economic development, we believe such initiatives must be pursued with due regard to constitutional principles of local autonomy, environmental protection, transparency, and meaningful public participation,” the mayor stated in his letter to the President.
Mayor Rodriguez urged the Chief Executive to direct the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), Department of Trade and Industry, and other relevant agencies to conduct a comprehensive consultation, fully disclose project details and environmental impact, and secure the required Sangguniang Bayan approval prior to implementation.
Attached to the letter was the Municipality’s Position Paper, which outlines in greater detail the local government’s concerns regarding the project’s potential effects on the community and environment. An identical letter was also sent to Engr. Joshua Bingcang, President and CEO of the BCDA.
Senate Hearing Participation
Meanwhile, Mayor Rodriguez and officials personally attended yesterday’s Senate Public Hearing conducted on August 14 by the Committee on Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change, in joint session with the Committee on Finance. The mayor served as a resource person during the proceedings.
During the hearing, Rodriguez reiterated the LGU’s position that while Capas is not opposed to progress and the employment opportunities the project may bring, the community’s right to be heard and consulted must be respected. He emphasized that the social acceptability of any national project remains paramount, especially when it affects the lives and livelihoods of Capaseños.
The Senate hearing provided a broader platform for discussing the environmental and socio-economic implications of the Pax Silica Project, with lawmakers and various stakeholders weighing in on the consultation gaps raised by the local government.
The LGU Capas reaffirmed its commitment to responsible and sustainable development that respects local autonomy and the welfare of its constituents.
