QUEZON CITY -- Following President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s goal of improving the energy sector in the Philippines, the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) invited the Department of Science and Technology - Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (DOST-PNRI) to an energy stakeholders coordination meeting on 28 February 2024 at the ARTA Central Office to introduce nuclear technology in the Philippines.

DOST-PNRI Deputy Director Dr. Vallerie Ann I. Samson and DOST-PNRI Chief Science Research Specialist Dr. Preciosa Corazon B. Pabroa joined the energy stakeholders meeting with ARTA Secretary Ernesto V. Perez, ARTA Better Regulations Office (BRO) and other concerned energy stakeholders to present their institute’s historical background, research projects, ongoing initiatives, and recommendations on the use of nuclear technology to further elevate the country’s capability to energize various sectors.

In their presentation, the DOST-PNRI showcased the applications of nuclear energy in several sectors such as agriculture, medicine, security, geology, environment, particle physics, and life science. It was discussed how nuclear technology can apply material modifications on crops which helps improve the shelf-life quality of fruits and vegetables for export. Such innovation was said to be a significant advantage to the country’s food security and global inflation.

According to the DOST-PNRI’s presentation, the Philippines’ Bataan Nuclear Power Plant (BNPP) was the very first nuclear power plant built in Southeast Asia and has been sought as a promising solution to the global oil crisis before it was discontinued. It was mentioned that the BNPP has the same units still being used and fully operational in other countries such as Angra, Brazil, Slovenia, and Korea.

In response to the presentation, Secretary Perez and the energy stakeholders expressed positive feedback and are all looking forward to the development of nuclear technology and its benefits to both industrial and commercial sectors.

“In our stride towards replacing red tape with a red carpet for investments and economic growth, adapting such innovation can be a very bold and progressive move to further advance the ease of doing business in the Philippines,” Secretary Perez said.

Under a whole-of-nation approach, Secretary Perez and the concerned energy stakeholders are setting to hold another meeting with the DOST-PNRI and have a visit to their nuclear facilities to further discuss potential collaborations on developing and incorporating the technology into several sectors in the country.

“With our administration’s ‘Bagong Pilipinas’ banner, our attention is very much open for advanced innovations, such as this [nuclear technology], that would help boost our country’s economic growth and the lives of the Filipino people,” the ARTA Secretary said. (ARTA)