High electricity costs were discussed at the Committee Appropriations budget hearing on August 27, as FPJ Panday Bayanihan Party-list Rep. Brian Poe highlighted nuclear energy as a possible solution, Manila Bulletin reported.

Poe noted that the Philippines has some of the highest power rates in Asia, weighing heavily on both industries and households.

“Energy costs in the Philippines are among the highest in Asia. Exploring nuclear—alongside renewables—offers us a path to reliable and affordable power. If we want industries to grow and rural communities to have steady electricity, we cannot ignore this option,” Poe said.

He added that small modular reactors (SMRs), a technology already being explored in other countries, could help bring down electricity costs for the country and could be a game-changer for the Philippines by providing affordable and safe energy solutions to remote and underserved areas. 

He adds that nuclear technology is not just an energy source but also a step toward national innovation and sovereignty.

“From nuclear medicine that saves patients to nuclear energy that lowers bills, the benefits are clear. These are investments that directly impact the lives of ordinary Filipinos. My office is ready to work with DOST to make sure these programs get the support they need,” said the vice chairman of the appropriations panel.

Poe underscored the relevance of budget hearings in surfacing programs that are overlooked such as the nuclear medicine program.

“If not for these hearings, many of our colleagues would not even know that such life-changing research is already being funded,” he said.

Do you think nuclear power could play a bigger role in lowering electricity costs in the Philippines?

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