The tandem of aspiring president Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. and vice presidential bet Sara Duterte has vowed to expedite the country's adoption of nuclear power, if and when they get elected in May.
Marcos Jr. and Duterte believe that incorporating nuclear power in the Philippines' energy mix would lower electricity rates and help secure a steady power source—part of the platform of the so-called "UniTeam".
"The President's executive order is a good springboard for the next administration to pursue its nuclear energy objectives. Our vision for the country is to have at least one nuclear power plant so we can finally produce cheap energy and for us to lower our electricity rates," the duo said.
Marcos Jr. and Duterte were referring to Executive Order ( EO) No.164, which the latter's father, President Duterte, signed last week. The EO outlined the country’s position for a nuclear energy program.
In a recent radio interview, Marcos Jr. said there is a need for the country to look into the use of nuclear power. He added that the issue should not be politicized.
"Once again, follow the science," he said.
Marcos Jr. also called for the rehabilitation of the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant (BNPP), which his camp said should have solved the country's energy deficit problem during the time of former President Ferdinand Marcos. The BNPP was never fired and was essentially shelved by the first Aquino administration.
The "presidentiable" from Ilocos Norte also called for the increased use of renewable energy technologies such as wind, solar, and geothermal to complement the current power generation sources.