Government vows proper disposal of nuclear waste

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine government has vowed to implement proper waste disposal measures in the use of nuclear energy.

“If the Philippines is to resort to the use of nuclear power to address its persistent problem of energy inadequacy, it must first find ways of how to safely dispose of the nuclear wastes,” Energy Secretary Angelo Reyes told the three-day International Ministerial Conference on Nuclear Energy in Beijing, China.

Reyes said the Philippine government is studying nuclear power as a long-term option to reduce its dependence on imported fossil fuel as a primary source of energy.

Reyes presented the country’s nuclear plan before the Beijing conference and urged nuclear developed countries to help in addressing the problem of nuclear waste disposal.

“One of the most sensitive and critical issues confronting the adoption of nuclear power is the disposition of nuclear wastes,” Reyes told the participants.

“The Philippines, a developing country that depends much on imported fuels, is forging ahead with plans to realize energy security and an optimal energy mix given the realities the country faces,” he said.

If and when the Philippines finally decides to consider nuclear power, Reyes said the country would be working closely with the United Nations’ International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

The IAEA had organized the event primarily to allow participants to discuss developments and emerging issues relevant to the role of nuclear power in providing clear and sustainable energy for national and regional development.

Like other developing countries, the Philippines, owing to its growing requirements for electricity, is pinning its hopes on nuclear power.

Reyes said nuclear power is a proven technology with virtually no greenhouse gas emissions or emission of pollutants. –Donnabelle Gatdula, Philippine Star