Palace tells Pax Silica critics: Use proper channels, shun aggression

Tensions erupt outside a hotel in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City, where President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. was attending an event on Thursday, Sept. 10, 2026. — Photo courtesy of the Philippines-Palestine Friendship Association/Facebook MANILA, Philippines — Palace press officer Claire Castro on Friday urged those opposing the Pax Silica initiative to course their objections through the proper channels rather than resorting to disruptive acts. On Thursday, tensions erupted outside the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City, where President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. was attending an event. READ: Tensions flare as Marcos courts foreign investors for Luzon Corridor Article continues after this advertisement Protesters holding placards and banners staged a demonstration opposing the Pax Silica initiative and the Luzon Economic Corridor. Five paralegals were arrested amid the commotion: three during the dispersal of protesters and two while allegedly assisting the three others. While Marcos recognizes and respects freedom of expression, Castro said it should not be exercised in a way that could hurt others or potentially lead to or cause violence. “Proper protest uses reason and intelligence. Please engage with the appropriate agencies so they can understand what you are advocating for,” she said at a briefing in New Delhi, India. “You will not arrive at a good solution if all you show the people are shouting and violence,” she continued. Article continues after this advertisement READ: 5 arrested at Taguig City rally decrying Pax Silica — rights group Marcos was attending the Luzon Economic Corridor Investors Forum at the hotel in BGC when protesters outside voiced their opposition to Pax Silica. Article continues after this advertisement Stakeholders and progressive groups have raised concerns over the initiative, particularly regarding the possible displacement of communities and environmental protection. /das Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again. Your subscription has been successful.