BY HERMAN M. LAGON
APART from its ability to lower greenhouse gas emissions, nuclear energy offers a compelling economic incentive. Because of its reliance on imported fossil fuels, the Philippines has some of the highest electricity rates in Southeast Asia. Reducing those costs might be possible with nuclear power. Furthermore, although clean alternatives like solar and wind power, nuclear energy still has the advantage of being a consistent, reliable power source. That stability is essential for our country to continue growing industrially and economically.
Even so, nuclear energy is not a panacea despite its allure. Adopting radioactive waste needs to be supported by extensive safety rules and infrastructure to manage it, a byproduct that, although small compared to fossil fuels, presents its own difficulties.
Before any plant is operational, the Philippine government must work with foreign organizations such as the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to ensure these systems are in place. The safe integration of nuclear energy into the nation’s energy mix can only be achieved with this degree of diligence.
Beyond the safety and logistics issues, there’s the matter of public opinion. The BNPP’s legacy lingers, and many Filipinos associate the word “nuclear” with anxiety rather than hope. Here’s where having appropriate conversations comes in handy. Public discussions with the government and its partners in the private sector need to be open, factual, and transparent. Education is essential; Filipinos must be aware of the possible benefits and hazards of nuclear energy. After all, fear frequently results from uncertainty.
The move to nuclear energy also offers us, particularly educators, students, and leaders, a great chance to reconsider how we teach energy and sustainability. As a physics teacher at Ateneo de Iloilo before, I facilitated debates about the advantages and disadvantages of different energy sources.
My students discussed the pros and cons of coal, diesel, natural gas, geothermal, solar, wind, biomass, and, yes, nuclear power. We acknowledged the risks associated with nuclear energy, especially since we are prone to natural disasters, but we also recognized its unparalleled efficiency and potential to provide stable, clean energy. We’re still debating balancing energy needs and environmental responsibility, so those discussions are relevant today.
Undeniably, the future of energy in the Philippines rests in discernment — rapid reflection, a balanced assessment, and a dedication to the greater good. Making the choice to go nuclear should not be taken hastily or swayed by political pressure. It needs to be based on the facts of the current energy situation while keeping an eye on the future, one in which we will have access to inexpensive, dependable energy that promotes economic development without endangering the environment.
It’s time to overcome the negative perception of nuclear energy and realize its potential — as long as we use it responsibly, openly, and honorably. Our country should have a resilient energy future devoid of the frequent blackouts and excessive power bills that have impeded our advancement for too long.
Even though the path to nuclear power is lengthy and full of obstacles, it does provide a route to energy independence that, with careful navigation, can result in a cleaner, brighter future for all of us.
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Doc H fondly describes himself as a “student of and for life” who, like many others, aspires to a life-giving and why-driven world grounded in social justice and the pursuit of happiness. His views do not necessarily reflect those of the institutions he is employed or connected with./PN
