The Subic Bay Freeport, a former United States naval base, is one of the major economic and investment hubs in Central Luzon. Its designation as a maritime gateway for the Pax Silica alliance is expected to generate income and create jobs. — PHOTO FROM THE SUBIC BAY METROPOLITAN AUTHORITY
SUBIC BAY FREEPORT— The Makabayan bloc on Saturday warned that the proposed energy infrastructure for the United States (US)-backed Pax Silica initiative could further drive up electricity prices and strain the country’s power supply.
In a joint statement, ACT Teachers Rep. Antonio Tinio, Gabriela Women’s Party Rep. Sarah Jane Elago, and Kabataan Rep. Renee Louise Co said the planned Economic Security Zone in New Clark City would require about 5 gigawatts of electricity, which they claimed would put additional pressure on the country’s already fragile power grid.
“With Pax Silica, power rates in the Philippines could become the highest in Southeast Asia and even the whole of Asia permanently. The 5-gigawatt demand will strain our already fragile grid to the breaking point, triggering rolling blackouts across the country and driving electricity prices even higher,” the lawmakers said.
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