CAPAS, Tarlac — Ayta communities in Sitio Manabayucan, Barangay O’Donnell, have expressed opposition to the proposed Pax Silica project, citing concerns over ancestral land, displacement and the impact of infrastructure development on their livelihoods.

The group KATRIBU, a convener of the Network Opposed to Pax Silica (NO To Pax Silica), conducted a solidarity mission to the community on Oct. 24 to assess the reported effects of Pax Silica and related infrastructure projects on Indigenous Peoples.

During the visit, Ayta leaders reported alleged land grabbing, displacement and environmental damage linked to development projects in the area. They also raised concerns about alleged harassment associated with the presence of the Philippine Air Force in their barangay and the effects of the planned Clark Advanced Manufacturing Park on their livelihoods.

The community showed the delegates burial grounds they said had been affected by infrastructure projects within New Clark City, as well as a site where a tarpaulin announcing Pax Silica had previously been displayed.

According to the group, BCDA security personnel approached and followed the delegates at the site.

KATRIBU also disputed the Bases Conversion and Development Authority’s position that Pax Silica would not affect Indigenous Peoples, saying the project could affect communities, schools and sacred sites.

The group called for the protection of Ayta ancestral lands and urged authorities to address the concerns raised by the communities.

The opposition comes as the government prepares for discussions on the project’s framework agreement with the United States, which the group said could be finalized during the upcoming Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit. (Ang Pahayagan Reportorial Team)

Photos courtesy of Katribu Kalipunan ng Katutubong Mamamayan ng Pilipinas