Tunis:President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. assured the public that the Philippines' involvement in the Pax Silica initiative will not threaten communities and indigenous cultural heritage. Concerns had been raised by civil society groups and local officials about the potential impact of developments linked to the initiative, especially the possible loss of burial sites important to Indigenous Peoples in Tarlac.

According to Philippines News Agency, Marcos emphasized that cultural concerns are integral to the discussions surrounding the initiative. He assured that the government is very sensitive to these issues and will not allow them to be compromised.

The President's reassurance followed the submission of a framework for the initiative by the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) to his office. This is part of the government's efforts to advance the Philippines' participation in Pax Silica.

Marcos also defended the initiative against fears it may harm local livelihoods, suggesting it could generate tens of thousands of jobs. He highlighted the initiative's potential to integrate the Philippines into the global supply chain for the digital economy and artificial intelligence (AI).

Additionally, Marcos recalled the country's work on an ASEAN roadmap for AI during its chairmanship of the regional bloc, indicating that preparations for emerging technology industries began prior to Pax Silica's introduction. Pax Silica is a United States-led initiative aimed at enhancing cooperation in the technology supply chain, covering areas related to AI and the digital economy.