[The Wide Shot] Why Pax Silica concerns people of faith
![[The Wide Shot] Why Pax Silica concerns people of faith](/api/imagekit?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rappler.com%2Ftachyon%2F2026%2F08%2FPAX-SILICA-FAITH.jpg&w=3840&q=75)
Catholic and ecumenical church groups in the Philippines are opposing the proposed 'Pax Silica' AI hub in Tarlac. Critics argue the project threatens indigenous lands, water resources, and local communities, citing moral concerns over environmental stewardship.
Why it matters
The conflict highlights the tension between rapid technological development and the protection of local ecological and social rights.
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Church groups have raised concerns about the environmental and social impacts of the Pax Silica AI hub proposed in Tarlac. Pax Silica is a US-led coalition aimed at securing global supply chains for AI, with the Philippines as a key signatory, but critics warn it may exploit local resources and communities while prioritizing economic growth over ecological and social responsibilities. The moral implications of Pax Silica are highlighted through references to Pope Francis' teachings on stewardship of the earth, suggesting that technological advancements should serve human dignity and care for creation rather than contribute to environmental degradation. This is AI-generated.
Unlike Vice President Sara Duterte, who knew nothing about Pax Silica , church groups came prepared when President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. mentioned the planned artificial intelligence (AI) hub in Tarlac during his State of the Nation Address (SONA).
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