A network of Filipino artists has launched a campaign opposing developments associated with the Pax Silica initiative, adding creative-sector concerns to the continuing public debate over the proposed advanced manufacturing development in New Clark City, Tarlac.

Artists Unite Against Pax Silica, or AUPAX, formally launched its campaign through the exhibit “ALL CAPS: Art, Land & Labor, Creatives Against Pax Silica” at Sampaguita Projects Gallery in Project 8, Quezon City. The exhibition runs from September 6 to 11.

Artists raise land, community and AI concerns

The campaign brings together visual artists, designers, writers, illustrators, photographers and cultural groups.

Organizers have raised concerns about the potential impact of large-scale development on land, natural resources, workers and Indigenous and local communities.

Artists involved in the campaign have also questioned the growing use of creative works to train generative artificial intelligence systems, particularly where creators say consent, copyright and compensation remain unresolved issues.

Government presents development as investment opportunity

The Philippine government and BCDA have presented the proposed Clark Advanced Manufacturing Park as an opportunity to attract investment in advanced manufacturing, semiconductors and technology-linked supply chains.

BCDA has also said consultations and community engagement will form part of project preparation and has been working with the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples to update community information in areas that could be affected.

The Department of Agrarian Reform said on September 3 that it had not yet received land-conversion applications related to the proposed hub, illustrating that important regulatory and planning processes remain underway.

The debate therefore continues between supporters who see potential economic and employment opportunities and groups seeking greater transparency and stronger assurances over environmental, social and community impacts.

Everything Tarlac will continue monitoring both the development plans and the positions of affected communities and stakeholders.