WASHINGTON, D.C.—The Philippines and the United States further deepened their cooperation in developing the former’s nuclear-energy program.
This, as the two countries signed a memorandum of understanding on Strategic Civil Nuclear Cooperation (NCMOU) on March 10.
“To ensure a resilient, inclusive and green economic growth for the Philippines, we need to intensify our work in securing reliable and sustainable energy sources, including nuclear energy,” said Ambassador of the Philippines to the US Jose Manuel G. Romualdez, who witnessed the signing of the NCMOU. “Through our cooperation, we hope to ensure the peaceful use of nuclear energy, and fulfill our decarbonization goals.”
Undersecretary Gerardo D. Erguiza Jr. remarked that the Department of Energy will intensify its collaboration with the US to improve the knowledge and understanding by furthering capacities on nuclear infrastructure through various technical assistance.
Noting the inclusion of nuclear power in the Philippines’s energy mix and the country’s exploration on the viability of reopening the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant, Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security Bonnie Jenkins welcomed the recently signed Executive Order 164: “Adopting A National Position For A Nuclear Energy Program, and For Other Purposes” by President Duterte, affirming it as a positive development “for those working together to deepen collaboration between the US companies and Philippine partners in making sure that nuclear energy contributes to [the latter’s] growth.”
“We are delighted to partner with the Philippines to advance our shared nonproliferation energy and related climate vision,” Jenkins added.
Both signed the NCMOU at the US Department of State headquarters.
Image credits: Washington, D.C. PE/DFA