Habagat downpour didn’t deter members of groups opposed to Pax Silica, an international initiative to secure supply chains for advanced technologies such as semiconductors, artificial intelligence and rare earth elements.
Umbrella-carrying protesters marched to the United States Embassy on Roxas Blvd with “Imperyalismo Ibagsak!” “Marcos, tuta ng U.S,” and Yankee, Go Home” placards.
The December 2025 Pax Silica declaration states “We seek to build and deploy trusted information networks, including information and communication technology systems, fiberoptic cables, and data centers.
It is widely understood that the aim of the 30-country plus coalition is to reduce reliance on China and counter its dominance in the field of semiconductor, AI and rare earth minerals.
The Philippines is committing 4,000 acres of land in New Clark City in Tarlac to be the initiative’s hub.
Photos and videos by Bullit Marquez for VERA Files.