Subic Port Designated Main Gateway for Pax Silica Trade

The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) said it is positioning the Port of Subic Bay as the primary entry and exit point for logistics and technology investments under the Pax Silica initiative. In a social media post on Monday, the BCDA said it signed a partnership with the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) designating Subic as the preferred maritime gateway for logistics, cargo handling, import and export operations, data integration, and other critical supply chain requirements related to Pax Silica. “The agreement establishes a framework for BCDA and SBMA to jointly assess and promote the Port of Subic Bay as the primary entry and exit point for silica, advanced technology inputs, and other high-value products that will support the development of the country’s AI and semiconductor ecosystem,” the BCDA said. Under the agreement, the BCDA and SBMA will also undertake studies, share data, and conduct joint technical assessments to strengthen logistics connectivity, improve supply chain efficiency, and unlock growth opportunities in the area. BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Joshua M. Bingcang called Subic strategic for Pax Silica-related investments. “It serves as a critical gateway that enables the efficient movement of raw materials into the country and the timely delivery of finished products to customers,” he said. The partnership also reinforces the Luzon Economic Corridor (LEC) through the stronger integration of ports, industrial hubs, and emerging technology ecosystems, the BCDA said. The LEC is a multi-country initiative that seeks to improve connectivity across key areas in Luzon, particularly Subic Bay, Clark, Metro Manila, and Batangas. The Port of Subic is 100 kilometers from New Clark City, the site of the upcoming 1,619-hectare artificial intelligence (AI) native hub to be developed by the Philippines and US. The hub supports the Philippines’ role in Pax Silica, a Washington-led partnership that the country is leveraging to raise its profile in the global supply chain for AI manufacturing and semiconductors. Citing a recent meeting with US Ambassador to the Philippines Lee Lipton, Finance Secretary Frederick D. Go said the US has identified Pax Silica-related initiatives in the Philippines as a key economic priority. The Philippines and US are looking to sign the framework agreement for the Pax Silica AI hub by November, Mr. Bingcang said last week. — Beatriz Marie D. Cruz