Possible adoption of nuclear energy discussed at Cabinet meeting —Palace

A proposal for the Philippines to revive its nuclear energy program has been presented to President Rodrigo Duterte and members of the Cabinet, Malacañang said Tuesday.

Duterte’s spokesperson Salvador Panelo said the proposal was discussed by Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi during the 46th Cabinet meeting on Monday.

“Secretary Cusi likewise sought the approval of the issuance of a proposed executive order for the inclusion of nuclear power in the country's energy mix as the Philippines is expected to have a rapid growth in electricity demand, in which a 24/7 power is essential and necessary,” Panelo said.

“The proposed EO was submitted by the OES (Office of the Executive Secretary) to the President on February 20, 2020. It has not been approved yet.”

Panelo, however, said the possibility of reviving the mothballed Bataan Nuclear Power Plant was not discussed.

Last year, the Philippines and Russia agreed to explore the possible construction of nuclear power plants in the country.

But environmentalists, including Greenpeace, urged the government not to pursue nuclear power, citing safety concerns. — KBK/BM, GMA News