Cojuangco Eyes Nuclear Energy for PH Growth Amid Crisis

Cojuangco emphasizes that nuclear energy be part of the country's energy plan

As global fuel prices rise amid escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, Pangasinan 2nd District Representative Mark Cojuangco calls for a decisive shift in the country's energy strategy through a proposed bill, seeking to integrate nuclear energy into the Philippines' national energy and development plan.

In a media briefing at the Diamond Hall of the Golden Peak Hotel, Cojuangco discussed House Bill No. 8567, which prescribes incentives for the integration of nuclear energy into the country's electricity sector. The bill outlines funding mechanisms and policy direction to accelerate the development of nuclear power, positioning it as a cornerstone of a more secure, stable, and economically resilient energy system.

The proposal comes at a critical time, as instability in global oil markets continues to expose the Philippines heavy reliance on imported fossil fuels. Rising fuel costs are already driving up electricity prices, transportation expenses, and the cost of basic goods, posing risks to both economic growth and household welfare.

"For decades, we have relied on energy sources that leave us vulnerable to global shocks and volatile prices. If we are serious about securing a stable and affordable energy future, we must take a clear and deliberate path forward. Nuclear energy must not be just an option; it is a necessity," said Cojuangco.

House Bill No. 8567 builds on the country's efforts to establish a strong nuclear regulatory framework following the enactment of the Philippine Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority (PhilAtom) Act. While PhilAtom laid the foundation for the safe and secure use of nuclear energy, this measure marks the next critical step, shifting from readiness to implementation. By introducing targeted incentives and enabling financing structures, the bill aims to ensure that nuclear energy projects can be pursued efficiently and at scale, making it a viable long-term solution to the country's energy challenges.

The measure also highlights the Philippines' untapped nuclear assets, including the Philippine Nuclear Power Plant (PNPP), a fully constructed and previously tested facility. According to Cojuangco, these assets represent not just sunk costs, but strategic opportunities to deliver affordable and reliable electricity.

"We are sitting on valuable infrastructure that can significantly lower electricity costs and reduce our dependence on imported fuels. The question is no longer whether nuclear energy is viable. It is whether we are willing to act," he added.

Cojuangco also emphasized that nuclear energy offers a unique advantage by providing consistent baseload power without greenhouse gas emissions. Unlike intermittent renewable sources that require backup systems, nuclear energy can operate independently, ensuring stability in the country's power supply while supporting long-term sustainability goals.

He further said that with nuclear energy, the cost of electricity per kilowatt hour can be reduced to only PhP5.00/kwh. According to Meralco, the current electricity fate stands at PhP 13.82 per kwh. Cojuangco emphasized that this reduction will impact the lives of every Filipino because it will mean that the household budget can be diverted to other essential expenses.

The bill also underscores the broader economic impact of adopting nuclear energy. By reducing reliance on imported coal and liquefied natural gas (LNG), the Philippines stands to save billions in foreign exchange while lowering electricity costs for businesses and households, enhancing competitiveness, attracting investments, and creating opportunities for jobs and skills development.

Also present at the briefing, Alpas Pinas Lead Convenor Gayle Certeza emphasized the urgency of advancing nuclear energy as part of the national agenda amid growing energy vulnerabilities.

"What we are seeing today is a clear reminder that our current energy system is not built for resilience. Nuclear energy provides a clean, cheap, and reliable solution that supports both economic growth and environmental sustainability," she said.

The proposed measure calls for a whole-of-government approach, including sovereign guarantees and financing mechanisms to support large-scale projects, alongside clear policy direction to position nuclear energy as a primary solution to the country's long-standing energy challenges. With global momentum accelerating, Cojuangco stressed that the Philippines must act decisively now.

"We cannot afford to wait for another crisis before making the right decision. If we want to build a stronger, more independent Philippines, we must invest in solutions that will stand the test of time. Nuclear energy is one of those solutions," Cojuangco reiterated

The media briefing gathered members of the press, policy stakeholders, and energy advocates, fostering dialogue on the role of nuclear energy in shaping the country's future. Organized with the support of Alpas Pinas, the initiative forms part of broader efforts to raise awareness and encourage informed discussions on sustainable and strategic energy solutions.

"As we face an increasingly uncertain global energy landscape, the need for decisive action has never been clearer. Nuclear energy is not just about powering homes; it is about empowering a nation," Certeza concluded.