More than 70% of Filipinos support nuclear energy as a potential future power source, according to a nationwide survey by the Department of Energy (DOE).

The poll, which was conducted by Social Weather Stations (SWS) from May 6 to 24, 2024 among 7,520 adult respondents, found that most Filipinos believe that nuclear power can provide reliable electricity, reduce dependence on imported fuels, create jobs, and help address climate change. The results carried a margin of error of ±1%.

The survey also showed that public acceptance extends to nuclear infrastructure projects. The rehabilitation of the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant received a net approval rating of +66, while the construction of new nuclear power plants earned a net approval of +45. Support was strongest among higher-income households, younger Filipinos, and more educated groups.

At the same time, 76% of respondents said they were eager to learn more about nuclear energy, indicating interest in further education and awareness campaigns.

Energy Secretary Sharon S. Garin said the results provide a strong signal for the government’s energy transition initiatives. “The strong public support reflected in this survey tells us that Filipinos are ready to embrace nuclear energy as part of our energy future. This gives us the confidence to move forward with careful, calibrated steps to ensure safe, secure, and sustainable development of nuclear power in the Philippines,” she said.

The DOE highlighted that this development comes after the recent passage of the Philippine National Nuclear Energy Safety Act and ahead of the Philippine International Nuclear Supply Chain Forum (PINSCF) 2025, to be held on October 2–3 at the Grand Hyatt Manila. The event will bring together global nuclear leaders and supply chain experts from countries including Argentina, Canada, South Korea, the UAE, and the United States.

The DOE leads the Nuclear Energy Program Inter-Agency Committee (NEP-IAC), a 24-member body tasked with ensuring that the Philippines’ nuclear program aligns with International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) standards. The Philippine Energy Plan 2023–2050 envisions up to 4,800 megawatts of nuclear capacity by 2040.

Do you think the Philippines is ready to take nuclear energy from public approval to actual power generation projects?

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