President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. called for a renewed assessment of nuclear energy production in the Philippines during his fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday, July 27, saying nuclear power could help strengthen the country’s energy security and reduce electricity costs.
Marcos said the government is open to exploring nuclear energy as part of its long-term strategy to address the country’s power needs while ensuring safety and public awareness.
“Perhaps it is time for us to revisit nuclear energy production. After all, we are already using nuclear energy in the fields of medicine, in agriculture, water filtration, and the upcycling of plastic,” Marcos said.
“We are confident in its capacity to reinforce our energy security and to bring down the cost of electricity in our country. We will be sure to do so. We will ensure that this is safe. We will also ensure that there is a good explanation for the good end of nuclear energy for the public,” he added.
The president emphasized that any move toward nuclear energy development would prioritize safety standards and transparency to gain public support.
Marcos also highlighted the administration’s broader efforts to lower electricity costs by expanding access to renewable energy solutions. He called on Congress to pass measures that would make solar panels and battery storage systems more accessible for Filipino households.
“First of all, to make it simple, easy, and accessible to the public, the installation of solar panels and battery storage systems in their homes, I ask the Congress to pass its own current act," Marcos said.
The president's remarks come as the country continues to seek additional sources of reliable energy amid rising electricity demand and concerns over energy security. The government said a diversified energy mix, including renewable sources and possible nuclear power development, will be crucial in ensuring a stable and affordable power supply for Filipinos.
