New Clark City in Tarlac will be developed into a large industrial hub focused on artificial intelligence (AI), covering about 1,618 hectares.
The project is linked to the Philippines’ entry into the US-led Pax Silica Declaration, which aims to strengthen global supply chains in semiconductors, AI, and critical minerals.
The hub will be developed as a “Golden Node,” described as an AI-focused investment and manufacturing center.
However, Philippine officials confirmed that the country rejected a US request to place the site under American law and grant diplomatic immunity to US personnel.
The project will instead follow Philippine laws, including existing investment and lease regulations under the BCDA.
BCDA President Joshua Bingcang said the development will be treated as a regular business investment with no special legal privileges. He added that the project is expected to create jobs and support local businesses.
As part of the agreement, lease payments will be waived for two years as support for early development, with new rates to be set starting in the third year.
US officials, investors, tech companies, and World Bank representatives visited the site during a recent inspection, where a marker for the future “Golden Node” was unveiled.
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