(Photo courtesy of DND)
MANILA – The United States is not planning any major announcement on the proposed Pax Silica Economic Security Zone in Luzon during the 49th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit, which US President Donald Trump is expected to attend.
US Ambassador to the Philippines Lee Lipton said Saturday that decisions concerning the initiative would be made in consultation with the Philippine government at the appropriate time.
“As stated previously and as part of this process, we expect rigorous discussions on impacts to all stakeholders,” Lipton said in a statement.
The ambassador emphasized Washington’s commitment to working with Manila on the initiative, which aims to strengthen supply chain security, encourage investment, and generate employment opportunities.
“We look forward to working alongside the government of the Philippines about this exciting initiative to secure supply chains and attract quality investment in support of economic growth and jobs at home for the Filipino people,” he added.
Malacañang earlier confirmed that the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) had submitted a memorandum concerning the Pax Silica Initiative.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the document would serve as a basis for negotiations and the finalization of a possible agreement between the Philippines and the United States.
Castro added that the Philippine government was awaiting Washington’s response to the draft agreement.
The proposed economic security zone is intended to support efforts to establish more secure supply chains and attract investments, although the details remain subject to discussions between the two governments.
The Philippines is scheduled to host the 49th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits from November 15 to 17, marking the conclusion of its ASEAN chairship.
