DOJ ready to look into Pax Silica's legal agreements if needed 

Amid mounting concerns surrounding the Pax Silica initiative, the Department of Justice (DOJ) on Thursday said that it is ready to look into the legal agreements concerning the massive initiative.

In a press briefing, DOJ Undersecretary Nicholas Ty said that the Pax Silica initiative mostly concerned economic agencies like the Department of Trade and Industry and the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development.

However, he admitted that the Justice Dept. may soon become involved.

“Obviously considering the magnitude of this project, this endeavor. DOJ will play a role, when the time comes, to look into the agreements as well as the legality of the entire process. If it does get to that point, we’ll be ready,” Ty said.

The Pax Silica Hub is a planned high-tech industrial zone in New Clark City, Tarlac, being developed as part of the Philippines’ partnership with the United States.

EXPLAINER: What is Pax Silica and why are people worried?

Asked if the DOJ was already looking into any possible constitutional issues that may arise from the deal, Ty said that they will wait and see.

“But if that does happen, when that does happen, we’ll be ready to look into the legal and constitutional angles of these endeavors,” Ty said.

Pax Silica, the planned AI-centered facilities in Tarlac, has been criticized by many green groups for the massive amounts of energy and water it will likely consume once built.

Some groups have alleged that the project threatens to displace farmers and indigenous groups.

However, the government has continuously defended the project, reiterating that it will generate jobs and income. —RF, GMA News