On Friday, the United States and the Philippines finalized a historic nuclear deal, enabling the U.S. to export nuclear technology and materials to Manila. The Philippines aims to leverage nuclear power to decarbonize its energy sector and enhance energy independence.
During a signing ceremony on the sidelines of the APEC Summit in San Francisco, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated, “The United States will be able to share equipment and material with the Philippines as they work to develop small modular reactors and other civilian nuclear energy infrastructure.”
Negotiations for the 123 Agreement commenced in November of the previous year. The deal, officially known as the 123 Agreement, envisions the U.S. assisting the Philippines in developing small modular reactors and other nuclear energy infrastructure, contributing to the diversification of the Philippines’ energy mix by 2032.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, emphasizing nuclear energy as an avenue to showcase the effectiveness of the Philippines-U.S. alliance.
While the deal awaits approval from the U.S. Congress, once endorsed, it will facilitate the peaceful transfer of nuclear material, information, and equipment, adhering to non-proliferation requirements.
As part of its strategy to address climate goals and reduce reliance on coal, the Philippines is exploring nuclear power as an alternative energy source. The country faces challenges related to volatile global oil prices, seasonal power outages, and high electricity rates, making energy security a priority.
Past attempts to pursue nuclear power in the Philippines encountered obstacles. However, the current president is contemplating the revival of a nuclear power plant, the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant, which was mothballed in 1986 due to political changes, the Chernobyl accident, and corruption allegations. The newly established nuclear deal symbolizes a significant step toward the Philippines achieving its energy and climate objectives.
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