New Clark City relocation housing could cost ₱30 million
BCDA plans about 50 houses for communities affected by the proposed Pax Silica hub, with access to alternative farmland.
Relocation housing for communities affected by the proposed Pax Silica project in New Clark City could cost ₱30 million, according to the Philippines’ Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA). The agency said it had broadly agreed on relocation arrangements with the communities.
BCDA president and chief executive officer Joshua Bingcang said around 50 houses were planned for a 10-hectare plot elsewhere within New Clark City, beyond the proposed hub’s 1,600-hectare boundary. Residents favoured houses with their own land over condominium units and liked the proposed design, he said.
The agency put its conservative housing estimate at ₱25 million, potentially reaching ₱30 million. BCDA would pay the expense without charging farmers who have lodged claims. It has also made allowance for additional claimants.
Farmers will receive access to an alternative 100-hectare agricultural area inside a 3,000-hectare zone where construction is barred. That zone is designated for forest conservation, open space and urban farming. A separate BCDA modern farming project could offer employment and may require about 200 farmers.
Bingcang said relocation discussions had involved community representatives, the Capas local government in Tarlac and the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples. Announced in April, the US-led Pax Silica initiative seeks allied supply chains for critical minerals and technologies. Signing of its master agreement is expected in November.
