Protesters vs Pax Silica should engage in dialogue, not violent rallies – Palace

September 11, 2026

By ABOGADO.COM.PH Staff

Malacañang has urged groups with concerns over the Pax Silica project to engage in dialogue instead of violent protests, following a a confrontation between youth protesters and police officers at the Luzon Economic Corridor Investment Forum at the Grand Hyatt Manila in Taguig City on Thursday.

In a press briefing in New Delhi, Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary and Palace press officer Claire Castro said President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. respects freedom of expression.

“Ang Pangulo po nire-recognize, ginagalang ang freedom of expression. Pero hindi po sa pamamaraang maaari kayong makapanakit o maaari pong dumaan ito o magdulot ng karahasan,” Castro said.

On Thursday, protesters and police clashed outside the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Taguig City.

Castro said violent protests would not lead to issues being resolved or understood by both sides.

The proposed Pax Silica hub at the New Clark City in Capas, Tarlac seeks to position the Philippines as a key player in global supply chains for technology.

“Hindi po ito parte ng isang freedom of expression. Kung mayroon silang nais na ipabatid patungkol sa issue ng Pax Silica, bukas ang ahensya ng pamahalaan na concerned dito sa project ng Pax Silica,” she said.

Castro added: “Hindi masusulusyonan ang issue ninyo sa pamamagitan nang mararahas na pagpoprotesta. Tayo po ay bansa na gumagamit ng tamang pag-e-evaluate, tamang pag-iisip, tamang pagdedesisyon.”