MANILA, Philippines — Senate Majority Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri expressed support for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s renewed push for nuclear energy, saying it was time for the Philippines to explore the said energy source.
Marcos, during his fifth State of the Nation Address on Monday, pushed for revisiting nuclear energy production to reinforce the country’s energy security and reduce rising electricity costs.
"I'm okay with that as well. You know, in Asean (Association of Southeast Asian Nations), only a few countries have yet to explore nuclear energy. Vietnam already has nuclear energy. Cambodia is building a nuclear power plant. Soon, Cambodia could even overtake us in this area. Thailand is moving in the same direction. So, I think it's about time we gave this serious attention," Zubiri told reporters.
Zubiri said nuclear energy could be safe, provided that appropriate technology is used.
"It's a very promising option because it provides a reliable source of energy. Nuclear power can be highly sustainable when managed properly. As long as the technology used is advanced and meets high safety standards, it is safe. Many countries around the world already rely on nuclear energy," he added.
