PH-US Govt agrees on civil nuclear deliverables

The Philippines and United States governments agreed on a civil nuclear cooperation to help address the country’s energy deficiency problem. 

In a report by Manila Bulletin, Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson revealed two notable deliverables: civil nuclear and trade cooperations, during the Makati Business Club (MBC) General Membership Meeting, which was discussed at the 10th Bilateral Strategic Dialogue last week.

In relation to civil nuclear cooperation, Carlson said that the US and Philippine governments have agreed to conduct initial consultations in the coming weeks in preparation for 123 agreement negotiations. 

Carlson claimed that the completion of the 123 agreement will result in “greater civil nuclear cooperation” including “the export of nuclear technology exportation”, adding that it will be the initial step to bringing nuclear power to help the country’s energy needs. 

In March 2022, the country signed a memorandum of understanding with the US government to explore the development of small nuclear reactors (SMRs) in island provinces. 

Prior to that, Pres. Rodrigo Duterte approved the Philippines’ national position for a nuclear energy program, officially adding nuclear power in the country’s energy mix through the Philippine Energy Plan.