DFA Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro said that the Pax Silica initiative will ensure the Philippines will not remain a mere exporter of raw materials or low-tier assembly. Speaking at the CSIS Manila Strategy Forum 2026 in Parañaque, Lazaro highlighted how the country is stepping up its role in the global tech supply chain.
The Philippines aims to become a secure hub for semiconductor packaging, critical mineral processing, and emerging technologies. Lazaro framed economic diplomacy as a vital form of national defense. She noted that at least seven countries want to explore local high-tech opportunities through the initiative.
Plans are already moving forward for a major US-led AI hub in Central Luzon. Site development will begin within three to five years. The project will cover 500 hectares of a 1,620-hectare site. Over 30 years of full operations, project estimates show national exports reaching $200 billion USD.
Manila is expanding its diplomatic network across Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and the Americas. These global ties prevent over-dependence on any single trade partner or capital source. Security experts noted that these growing global alliances will also help protect the Philippines.
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Site development in Central Luzon begins over the next three to five years, marking the first physical step toward building the regional AI hub.
