What are the opening hours?

Monday 8am - 5pm Tuesday 8am - 5pm Wednesday 8am - 5pm Thursday 8am - 5pm Friday 8am - 5pm

https://www.facebook.com/1593210837432550/

PSAU English Language Studies Society, Pampanga State Agricultural University, Pampanga, Magalang (2026)

23/08/2026

Filipino or Tagalog? A Matter of Perspective

Are Filipino and Tagalog really different? Or does it depend on how we look at language?

This Buwan ng Wika, let’s take a closer look at the relationship between Filipino and Tagalog through different perspectives.

Which perspective should we look into?

23/08/2026

𝘼 𝙈𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝘾𝙖𝙢𝙖𝙧𝙖𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙞𝙚

“This was us at 2nd year 🫶🏼 What started as a handbook requirement for ELS 104 is now a keepsake of our batch— a memory only we truly understand 💚💛”

If you wish that your throwback photos will be featured, just click the gform link and upload your pics!

https://forms.gle/qDCdS4xNxzpPGRuh9

21/08/2026

Ninoy Aquino Day

“𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘍𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘰 𝘪𝘴 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘩 𝘥𝘺𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘧𝘰𝘳.”

Today, the English Language Studies Society (ELSSoc) and the Bachelor of Arts in English Language Studies (BAELS) community commemorate Ninoy Aquino Day, remembering Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr. and his significant place in Philippine history.

This day becomes an opportunity to reflect on the events, struggles, and contributions that shaped the country’s history and its continuing journey as a nation.

May we continue to remember the past, understand its significance, and carry its lessons forward.

18/08/2026

Warmest birthday wishes to our esteemed Chair of the Department of English (DoE)! Your dedication to teaching, remarkable knowledge of linguistics, and ability to make every lesson both insightful and entertaining make learning a truly engaging experience.

Thank you for sharing your wisdom, passion, and humor with us, and for making the classroom a place where learning feels both meaningful and enjoyable. May this special day bring you the same joy and inspiration you bring to those around you.

Happy Birthday, Ma’am Lei! 🌻

12/08/2026

𝑯𝒊𝒔𝒕𝒐𝒓𝒚 𝒊𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑴𝒂𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈

“CAS Sem-ender Party at College of Arts and Sciences year 2016”

If you wish that your throwback photos will be featured, just click the gform link and upload your pics!

https://forms.gle/qDCdS4xNxzpPGRuh9

09/08/2026

International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples

Today, the English Language Studies Society (ELSSoc) and the Bachelor of Arts in English Language Studies (BAELS) community honor the diverse cultures, languages, traditions, and knowledge systems of Indigenous Peoples around the world.

We, as language voyagers, recognize the power of intercultural communication in fostering understanding and respect across cultures. May this day be a reminder to use language as a bridge by creating spaces where every culture and every voice is heard and valued.

06/08/2026

𝗘𝗗𝗜𝗧𝗢𝗥𝗜𝗔𝗟 | Economic Progress for the Philippines or Power for Others?

Lei D. Garcia, BAELS 4

As the world advances with artificial intelligence (AI) and semiconductor technology, the proposed Pax Silica initiative by the United States of America (USA) positions the Philippines at a pivotal point. In his 2026 State of the Nation Address (SONA), President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. presented the project as a major driver for economic growth that would provide quality jobs, improve the technological industry, and boost the Philippine economy. While these statements may sound promising, they also raise an important question; will the Filipino people truly benefit from this US-led project?

While economic growth is important, it must not come at the cost of the country’s resources as it does not equate to overall national progress. Thus, the Philippine government should critically look into the long-term effects of this project on local communities, the environment, natural resources, and how the Filipino people will benefit from technological advancement, not just foreign industries this country would be accommodating.

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) stated that the Pax Silica could significantly strengthen the Philippine economy through foreign direct investments and expansion of the country’s AI and semiconductor industry. According to the DTI Undersecretary and Board of Investments Managing Head Dr. Ceferino Rodolfo, the Philippine’s participation in the project would allow the country to attract more investments and strengthen its position in the global industry. He explained that this partnership is expected to support economic growth by bringing in advanced technology and creating new opportunities for Filipino workers and businesses

In addition, the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) claims that Pax Silica could attract around 30 local and international investors, create up to 190,000 direct jobs, and generate approximately ₱75 billion in annual tax revenues once the project is fully developed. BCDA President and CEO Joshua Bingcang explained that these projections demonstrate the project's potential to boost economic activity, increase employment opportunities, and contribute to the country's long-term industrial development. These expected outcomes help explain why the government continues to promote Pax Silica as a major investment initiative.

Despite all of these promises, Pax Silica raises concerns about who will truly benefit from it. As a US-led project, it is part of a broader effort to strengthen "trusted" AI, semiconductor, and critical mineral supply chains for economic and national security, showing that it is driven by both economic and strategic interests. So, will the Philippines become an “equal” partner, or simply a supplier of land, resources, and labor? Economist and Rappler Columnist Dr. JC Punongbayan argued that without meaningful technology transfer, advanced manufacturing, and support for Filipino innovation, Pax Silica may do more to strengthen foreign industries than build the country's own technological future.

Moreover, the Lowy Institute notes that while Pax Silica presents a rare opportunity for industrial growth, the Philippines must negotiate for stronger commitments on technology transfer, local hiring, and skills development. Otherwise, the country risks remaining at the lower end of the global value chain while wealthier nations retain control over technology and innovation.

Pax Silica presents an opportunity for the Philippines to strengthen its economy and participate in the rapidly growing AI and semiconductor industries. However, economic growth should not be the sole measure of national progress. Before allowing a project of this scale to move forward, the Philippine government must ensure that it protects the country's long-term interests, promotes technological development, and prioritizes the welfare of the Filipino people. True progress is achieved not only through increased investments but also through partnerships that empower the nation and allow it to grow on its own terms.

REFERENCES:

State of the Nation Address 2026. Office of the President of the Philippines. https://stateofthenation.gov.ph/sona/2026/

Lowy Institute. (2026). The Philippines has a golden chance to get Pax Silica right. https://www.lowyinstitute.org/the-interpreter/the-philippines-has-a-golden-chance-to-get-pax-silica-right

Presidential Communications Office. (2026). BCDA says Pax Silica project could generate over 130,000 high-quality jobs. https://pco.gov.ph/news_releases/bcda-says-pax-silica-project-could-generate-over-130000-high-quality-jobs/

Punongbayan, J. (2026). Pax Silica: Will the Philippines build its future—or for others? Rappler. https://www.rappler.com/voices/thought-leaders/opinion-pax-silica-will-philippines-build-future-or-for-others/

The Philippine Star. (2026). BCDA: Over 30 firms interested in Pax Silica project. https://www.philstar.com/business/2026/07/24/2544182/bcda-0ver-30-firms-interested-pax-silica-project

06/08/2026

𝗘𝗗𝗜𝗧𝗢𝗥𝗜𝗔𝗟 | Uproot False Modernization

Patrick Carlos D. Famanilay, BAELS 3

For decades, the Philippines has been recognized as an agricultural nation, with millions of Filipinos relying on farming not only as a livelihood but also as a pillar of the country's economy, culture, and food security. Yet this identity is steadily being sacrificed in the name of modernization. As the government aggressively pursues industrial expansion, the agricultural sector continues to be pushed to the margins through declining support for farmers, persistent challenges in production and marketing, and the continuous conversion of productive farmlands into commercial and industrial developments. The proposed Pax Silica project reflects this troubling trajectory, raising a fundamental question: should modernization come at the expense of the nation's farmers, food security, and natural resources?

The proposed Pax Silica project in Capas, Tarlac exemplifies this growing trend. Planned as a technology manufacturing hub covering approximately 3,500 hectares, with around 1,620 hectares initially proposed for development, the project has been presented as a symbol of economic progress and technological advancement. However, beneath the promise of innovation lies a question that has long accompanied large-scale development projects: progress for whom?

Malacañang has repeatedly assured the public that no farmers will be displaced, emphasizing that the identified area falls within designated "buildable zones" (Manahan, 2026). Government officials likewise stressed that only portions of these zones would be utilized for the project (Unite, 2026). While these assurances may appear reassuring, they fail to address the fears and uncertainties of the communities living within and around the proposed site.

Interviews featured in Jessica Soho's KMJS Special Report reveal a different reality. Residents expressed that they were never properly consulted before plans for the project moved forward. "Wala silang kinausap sa amin. Basta na lang nila papasukin yung area," one resident lamented, while another asked, "Saan po kami dadalhin, tulad po ng kabuhayan namin?" These voices expose a recurring flaw in the country's development agenda. The communities expected to bear the greatest burden are often the last to be heard.

Economic development should never come at the expense of those who cultivate the nation's food. When fertile land is replaced by factories and livelihoods are exchanged for promises of future prosperity, the country risks losing far more than hectares of farmland. It risks eroding its agricultural identity, weakening food security, and abandoning the very people who have sustained the nation for generations. Genuine progress cannot be measured solely by the number of industrial hubs built, but by whether development uplifts every sector instead of leaving farmers to shoulder its costs.

Beyond the conversion of farmlands, the country's mineral resources are likewise being positioned as a key source of raw materials for the proposed hub, raising another critical concern. The demand for these resources may intensify mining activities, placing additional pressure on the Philippines' already vulnerable natural environment. The government must ensure that resource extraction does not merely serve foreign or corporate interests at the expense of Filipino communities. Instead, it must guarantee that Filipinos receive equitable economic benefits, that affected communities are protected from exploitation, and that environmental safeguards are rigorously enforced. Development cannot be considered genuine if it depletes the nation's natural wealth while leaving its people and ecosystems to bear the consequences.

Supporters of Pax Silica argue that the project will accelerate the Philippines' economic growth by attracting foreign investments, creating thousands of jobs, advancing technology, and positioning the country as a regional semiconductor and electronics manufacturing hub. They also point to government assurances that the project will be built only on designated buildable zones and will not displace farmers.

These projected benefits are undeniably significant. However, economic growth should not come at the expense of farmers, local communities, and the environment. Government assurances alone cannot substitute for meaningful consultation, transparent planning, and concrete safeguards for affected residents. Development that overlooks food security, agricultural livelihoods, and the sustainable use of natural resources is neither inclusive nor sustainable.

The government must prioritize the welfare of its people and the long-term interests of the nation before allowing so-called modernization to dictate its development agenda. Projects such as Pax Silica demand more than promises of economic growth. They require meaningful public consultation, transparency, accountability, and policies that genuinely protect the communities most affected. Before the project moves forward, the government must ensure that the voices of farmers and local residents are not merely acknowledged but become an integral part of the decision-making process. After all, genuine development is measured not by the industries a nation builds, but by the people it protects.

REFERENCES:

GMA Public Affairs. (2026). Pax Silica, makakabuti ba o makakasama? https://youtu.be/uBJecTjQKLU?si=sP-6IGL_gYFM6kNd

Manahan, J. (2026). Palace: No farmers will be displaced by Pax Silica Hub. ABS-CBN. https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/business/2026/8/3/palace-no-farmers-will-be-displaced-by-pax-silica-hub-1604

Unite, B. (2026). Castro: Pax Silica won't affect farmers. Manila Bulletin. https://mb.com.ph/2026/08/03/castro-pax-silica-wont-affect-farmers

05/08/2026

𝗘𝗗𝗜𝗧𝗢𝗥𝗜𝗔𝗟 | Pax Silica: Progress Demands Sustainable Electricity and Water

Jhay-Cy T. De Guzman, BAELS 4

Pax Silica is a United States-led international initiative aimed at strengthening secure supply chains for artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and other advanced technologies. As part of the Philippines’ participation in the initiative, a proposed industrial hub in New Clark City seeks to attract technology-driven industries by developing infrastructure capable of supporting advanced digital and manufacturing operations. However, as the project advances, concerns have emerged regarding whether the electricity and water resources needed to sustain these industries can be reliably provided without creating environmental and social challenges.

While Pax Silica presents opportunities for advancing the Philippines’ artificial intelligence and semiconductor industries, the project raises significant concerns regarding the sustainability of its electricity and water sources. Without clear evidence that these resources can support long-term operations without affecting communities and environmental stability, the project requires further assessment before full implementation.

The greatest challenge facing Pax Silica is not the development of advanced technology but the sustainability of the resources that will support it. Although the project promises to position the Philippines as a global center for artificial intelligence and semiconductor manufacturing, its success in the long run depends on whether its sources of electricity and water can provide a stable and reliable supply over the long term. Without sufficient planning for electricity and water resources, the project’s economic benefits may be outweighed by its environmental and social costs.

Electricity is a fundamental requirement for the continuous operation of AI data centers and semiconductor manufacturing facilities. The International Energy Agency (IEA, 2025) notes that the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence is expected to significantly increase electricity demand from data centers, highlighting the importance of secure and sustainable energy supplies. Mendoza (2026) likewise raises concerns about Pax Silica’s enormous electricity requirement and the need to carefully examine whether its energy demands can be sustainably met. For this reason, the proposed power source should be evaluated not only in terms of its capacity but also its reliability and sustainability. Because AI data centers and semiconductor manufacturing operate continuously, even brief interruptions in electricity supply could affect productivity, disrupt operations, and reduce the overall efficiency of the project. Although dedicated energy facilities may reduce dependence on the national power grid, their effectiveness ultimately depends on whether they can consistently generate enough electricity to meet the project’s demands without placing additional pressure on the country’s overall energy resources.

Water availability presents an equally important concern. Mendoza (2026) emphasizes that the project’s water demand deserves careful assessment because of its potential implications for surrounding communities, agriculture, and the environment. This concern is supported by the European Environment Agency (2026), which explains that AI infrastructure places pressure on water resources through data-center cooling, electricity generation, and semiconductor manufacturing. Building on this concern, identifying alternative water sources is only the first step; what matters more is whether these sources can continuously satisfy industrial demand under varying environmental conditions. A dependable water supply must remain sufficient even during prolonged dry seasons, when water resources become more limited and competition among industrial, agricultural, and domestic users increases. Ensuring a stable water supply is therefore essential not only for maintaining industrial operations but also for minimizing potential conflicts over water use among different sectors.

Another concern that follows from the issues raised by Mendoza (2026) is the absence of a clearly defined contingency plan should the proposed sources of electricity and water prove insufficient. Large-scale industrial developments require uninterrupted access to these resources, making supply shortages a significant operational risk. If the dedicated energy facilities fail to generate enough electricity, would the project eventually depend on the national power grid? Similarly, if the proposed water sources cannot meet demand during prolonged dry periods, would additional water be drawn from local reservoirs, rivers, or groundwater that also serve nearby communities and agricultural areas? These questions highlight the importance of establishing clear contingency measures before the project reaches full implementation. Without transparent answers to these concerns, it remains difficult to determine whether the proposed resource management strategy is adequately prepared to support the project’s long-term operations.

Overall, the greatest challenge facing Pax Silica is not whether it can attract advanced industries, but whether it can sustainably support them through reliable electricity and water resources. The concerns surrounding the project’s electricity and water sources should not be interpreted as opposition to the project itself but as a call for responsible and sustainable development. Ensuring that adequate electricity and water supplies are available, together with transparent contingency measures to address any future resource shortages, is essential to protecting both the project’s viability and the interests of surrounding communities. By addressing these concerns before full implementation, Pax Silica can pursue technological and economic progress while promoting environmental sustainability and responsible resource stewardship.

Supporters of Pax Silica argue that concerns regarding electricity and water have already been considered during the project’s planning stage. The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) has stated that the project will develop dedicated energy infrastructure to support its electricity requirements rather than relying solely on existing public utilities. For water management, BCDA has explained that the project will utilize surface-water harvesting, rainwater collection, storage, treatment, and recycling systems instead of depending on the water supply intended for nearby communities. In addition, the National Water Resources Board (NWRB) has indicated that available water sources in the area have been assessed as sufficient to support the project while maintaining the priority of surrounding communities’ water needs. Meanwhile, the Department of Energy (DOE) has stated that the project’s electricity requirements are being evaluated and that available energy options are being considered to ensure that meeting Pax Silica’s demand will not disadvantage the country’s overall power supply. These statements suggest that project proponents and government agencies have attempted to address concerns regarding resource availability through proposed infrastructure and government assessment.

While these proposed measures demonstrate that project proponents have recognized the importance of securing reliable electricity and water resources, they do not by themselves guarantee that the project’s long-term resource requirements can be consistently met. The effectiveness of dedicated energy infrastructure and water management systems will ultimately depend on their successful implementation, continuous monitoring, and ability to withstand changing environmental conditions and increasing industrial demand. Until these measures are proven effective in practice, concerns regarding the sustainability of Pax Silica’s electricity and water sources remain valid and warrant continued evaluation before the project reaches full implementation.

Pax Silica represents a significant opportunity for the Philippines to participate in the growing artificial intelligence and semiconductor industries. However, technological advancement should not come at the expense of resource sustainability. Although project proponents have proposed dedicated energy systems and water management strategies to address concerns regarding resource availability, the effectiveness of these measures will ultimately depend on their ability to support long-term operations under changing environmental and resource conditions. Ensuring that Pax Silica can meet its electricity and water demands, while maintaining transparent contingency measures and protecting surrounding communities, is essential before the project moves toward full implementation.

REFERENCES:

Artificial intelligence and sustainable consumption in Europe. (2026, May 5). Publications | European Environment Agency (EEA). https://www.eea.europa.eu/en/analysis/publications/artificial-intelligence-and-sustainable-consumption-in-europe

Energy and AI. (2025, April 10). Publications | International Energy Agency (IEA). https://www.iea.org/reports/energy-and-ai/

Esguerra, D. J. (2026, July 20). Gov’t assures safeguards in proposed Pax Silica project. Publications | Philippine News Agency. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1279807

Guiao, M. A. (2026, July 27). EXPLAINER: What is Pax Silica; why does it matter to Filipinos?. Publications | PEP.ph. https://www.pep.ph/pepalerts/fyi/193155/explainer-what-is-pax-silica-a5229-20260728-lfrm

Mendoza, T. (2026, July 30). Pax Silica brings promise—but at what cost?. Publications | INQUIRER.NET. https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2274123/pax-silica-brings-promise-but-at-what-cost

Pax Silica project will use rainwater harvesting, not community water supply — BCDA. (2026, July 23). Publications | DZRH News. https://www.dzrh.com.ph/post/pax-silica-project-will-use-rainwater-harvesting-not-community-water-supply-bcda

Villanueva, J. (2026, July 28). DOE drafting circular for Pax Silica power requirement. Publications | Philippine News Agency. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1280533.

25/07/2026

National Campus Press Freedom Day

Today, the English Language Studies Society (ELSSoc) and the Bachelor of Arts in English Language Studies (BAELS) community recognize the role of student journalists in upholding truth, accountability, and democratic discourse within our campuses and communities. Across Philippine universities, campus journalists have documented cases in which fellow student journalists, publications, student leaders, and activists were publicly red-tagged after reporting on or speaking about social and political issues. These incidents remind us that the pursuit of truth can come at a personal cost, creating a climate of fear that threatens not only press freedom but also the academic community's right to informed discourse.

A free campus press cannot exist where fear silences those who write, report, and speak. Defending press freedom also means safeguarding every student's right to ask difficult questions, express ideas, engage in peaceful advocacy, and participate in shaping a democratic society without intimidation.

This , we stand with campus journalists and all members of the academic community who continue to pursue truth despite adversity. May our campuses remain spaces where ideas are challenged, voices are protected, and freedom is never mistaken for a threat.

PSAU English Language Studies Society

23/08/2026

23/08/2026

21/08/2026

18/08/2026

12/08/2026

09/08/2026

06/08/2026

06/08/2026

05/08/2026

25/07/2026

Address

Opening Hours

Website

Alerts

Contact The School

Shortcuts

Share

Category

Listing takedown request

Monday	8am - 5pm
Tuesday	8am - 5pm
Wednesday	8am - 5pm
Thursday	8am - 5pm
Friday	8am - 5pm