‘VIABLE ALTERNATIVE’ | Duterte adopts order outlining position on nuclear energy policy

March 3, 2022 , 11:13 AM

By Beatrice Puente

(March 3, 2022) – President Rodrigo Duterte has signed an executive order (EO) outlining the country’s position for a nuclear energy program as part of efforts by the government to explore alternative sources of energy in the face of thinning supply.

Duterte signed EO 164 last February 28 but was only made public on Thursday. It shortly came after the Department of Energy (DOE) told an online briefing that the tough-talking leader would approve an order backing nuclear power development in the country.

“Nuclear power shall be tapped as viable alternative baseload power source along with alternative energy resources, to address the projected decline of coal-fired power plants which come under increasing environmental opposition,” read a portion of EO 164.

In July 2020, Duterte formed the Nuclear Energy Program Inter-Agency Committee (NEP-IAC) to undertake a “pre-feasibility study” on the viability of nuclear energy. It is headed by the DOE while the Department of Science and Technology serves as co-chair.

Duterte also stressed the need to carry out consultation with residents on the possible revival of the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant (BNPP), according to former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque in October 2020.

The BNPP, a project of former President Ferdinand Marcos Sr., has been mothballed for about four decades due to safety and economic reasons. Marcos reportedly received $80 million worth of kickbacks from it.

“The State is committed to pursue the highest standards of nuclear safety, security, and safeguards, including our provision for civil liability, to fulfill its obligations under international treaties, and other international conventions and agreements,” added the order.

Some advocacy groups have remained skeptical of the revival of nuclear energy in the country due to its perceived risks that would outweigh any potential social and economic gains. Others are pointing to renewable energy as a more viable energy resource that the country can turn to instead of nuclear power, especially with the worsening climate crisis.

Duterte directed the NEP-IAC to ensure the comprehensive and legal framework of the nuclear energy program, including the establishment of an independent regulatory body. He also ordered the NEP-IAC to ensure public awareness about the program.

“The national government shall endeavor to continually engage a broad range of stakeholders in completing the work required to implement the national commitment to introduce nuclear power,” said the order.

Moving forward, the government also plans to pursue the “development of nuclear power infrastructure and the encompasses the planning and construction, operational, commercial, and post-operational stages of nuclear power plants.”

Some presidential candidates have expressed their position on nuclear energy. Vice President Leni Robredo said talks are important to address the safety concerns related to this while Manila Mayor Isko Moreno said he would prioritize renewable energy and natural gas.

“We are open to discussions, but it is very clear to us that we are focusing our goals on moving away from fossil fuel dependence,” said Robredo last January.

(PM)

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