Duterte wants to consult first Bataan residents about revival of nuclear power plant

October 1, 2020

President Rodrigo Duterte has directed  concerned government agencies to consult the residents of Bataan if there is a move to revive the mothballed Bataan Nuclear Power Plant BNPP).

In a televised press briefing in Bataan, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said Duterte made the directive during his recent meeting with Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi and former Tarlac Rep. Mark Cojuangco who has been pushing for the establishment of nuclear plants in the country.

"When it comes to the meeting with Secretary Cusi and former Congressman Mark Cojuangco, the President said start from the ground. Study thoroughly, but start from the ground and I think to me, we, from Bataan should be consulted first if we really want to open the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant," Roque said.

He said any decision to revive the BNPP would not come from the top.

Earlier this year, the Department of Energy submitted to Malacanang a proposed executive order for the inclusion of nuclear power in the country's energy mix.

The move was made as the Philippines is expected to have higher demand on electricity. Celerina Monte/DMS