Pangasinan 2nd District Representative Mark O. Cojuangco joined Philippine-US discussions on civil nuclear energy cooperation during the Foundational Infrastructure for Responsible Use of Small Modular Reactor Technology (FIRST) Delegation in the United States.

The talks focused on strengthening cooperation between the Philippines and the United States in nuclear energy, including financing mechanisms, safety regulations, energy security, and best practices for civil nuclear power programs.

The delegation also exchanged views on how civil nuclear energy cooperation could support the Philippines’ efforts to diversify its energy mix while meeting growing electricity demand.

Cojuangco and other members of the House of Representatives visited US nuclear energy facilities and research institutions. These included the Tennessee Valley Authority’s small modular reactor (SMR) deployment site, Kairos Power, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, the East Tennessee Economic Council, and the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.

Small modular reactors are nuclear reactors designed at a smaller scale than conventional nuclear plants and are being studied by countries exploring nuclear power options with potentially more flexible deployment.

The delegation also met with California 6th District Representative Ami Bera to discuss legislative cooperation and applications of nuclear technology.

They also went to the US Department of Energy to speak with Undersecretary Kyle Hausveit on energy security, affordability, reliability, and government collaboration.

“Our meeting with the United States provides a great opportunity to bring our nuclear energy vision to the table, and we are grateful to have conversations that align with the ongoing efforts of the Philippines and the US on nuclear energy development,” Cojuangco said.

Alpas Pinas said the engagement supports the organization’s broader push to promote nuclear energy as a clean and sustainable power source in the Philippines.

Alpas Pinas lead convenor Gayle Certeza said the discussions helped lay the groundwork for future cooperation.

“The Philippine-US engagement paves the way to future opportunities and meaningful partnerships in support of the country’s nuclear energy goals,” Certeza said.

She added that Cojuangco’s participation gives the organization a starting point to continue pushing for informed discussions on nuclear energy based on global best practices and collaboration.

Cojuangco, following the passage of the PhilAtom bill, is now also pushing for House Bill 8567, which seeks to include nuclear energy in the country’s electricity sector.

How should the Philippines balance nuclear energy cooperation, regulation, and public confidence as it explores adding nuclear power to its energy mix?

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