RP to seek Japan's assistance on plan to put up nuclear plant

TOKYO (Via PLDT) – The Philippines will seek Japan’s assistance on the possibility of putting up nuclear power plants as the country moves to reduce its dependence on imported oil for power and energy, President Arroyo said yesterday.

Mrs. Arroyo bared the plans in her message before the International Friendship Exchange Council of Japan at the Imperial Hotel here attended by over 400 members, including 60 ambassadors and diplomats.

She noted the Philippines has membership in the board of governors of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and has been an active member to promote the peaceful uses of nuclear energy.

 “In cooperation with the IAEA, the Philippines is in the process of reviewing its energy options including the use of nuclear power,” the President said.

 “We seek the cooperation of Japan for the training of our technical people and for the counsel and advice in this very sensitive area,” she added.

Japan currently operates 55 nuclear reactors all over the country.

The government last year sought the help of the IAEA to recommend steps to be taken on the possible rehabilitation of the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant, a completely-built pressurized water reactor mothballed in 1986.

Mrs. Arroyo said the Philippines is committed to energy independence that is engaged in the development of renewable energy sources like geothermal, solar and wind, “which are climate-friendly.”

 “We also have projects for alternative transport fuels in biodiesel and bioethanol. Large tracts of lands have been identified for the development of alternative fuels. They offer tremendous opportunities for foreign investment,” she said.

The chief executive earlier met with Toyota Tsusho chairman Masaaki Furukawa to discuss the global auto company’s proposed biodiesel project in the Philippines.

She said 44 percent of the country’s energy requirements are supplied by renewable energy sources.

 “We intend to increase the share of renewable energy in power generation. In this regard, we are seeking the cooperation of Japan,” she said.