Philippines Makes ‘Significant Progress’ Toward Nuclear Power Goals

The Philippines is making “significant progress” in its efforts to adopt nuclear energy as a power source, according to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

An Integrated Nuclear Infrastructure Review (INIR) mission conducted last week evaluated the country’s readiness to deploy nuclear energy, following an initial mission in 2018. The review team, composed of international experts from Türkiye, Pakistan, and the IAEA, assessed the Philippines’ progress and provided recommendations for further development.

Commitment to Nuclear Energy

Mehmet Ceyhan, INIR mission team leader and technical lead for the IAEA Nuclear Infrastructure Development Section, acknowledged the government’s proactive steps.

“The Philippines expanded its Nuclear Energy Programme Implementing Organization (NEPIO) to 24 organizations, with all sub-committees actively engaged in relevant activities. This demonstrates the country’s commitment to proceed with its nuclear power program,” Ceyhan said.

However, the mission team highlighted areas needing improvement, including the country’s grid network, industrial participation, and national legislation, before nuclear energy deployment can begin.

Energy Secretary Welcomes Findings

Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla expressed gratitude for the IAEA’s assessment, affirming the government’s dedication to developing a safe and robust nuclear energy program.

“This collaboration strengthens our ability to adopt nuclear energy responsibly alongside renewable energy sources, driving us closer to our goal of inclusive and sustainable economic growth,” Lotilla said.

Nuclear Energy Timeline

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has set a target of 2032 to establish the Philippines’ first nuclear power plants, with an initial capacity of 1,200 megawatts.

The country’s nuclear journey dates back to the construction of the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant (BNPP) during the Marcos Sr. administration. Completed in 1986, the plant never operated due to allegations of corruption and safety concerns.