Lawmaker criticizes government inaction on nuclear power plant operation

MORONG, Bataan — Pangasinan 2nd District Representative Mark Cojuangco has criticized the national government for what he characterized as a lack of urgency in pursuing nuclear energy as a power generation option, specifically regarding the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant (BNPP) located in this coastal municipality.

Cojuangco voiced his disappointment during a facility tour on Thursday, saying the government has failed to demonstrate firm resolve needed to operationalize the BNPP. The facility, which has remained non-operational since its completion in the late 1980s, has become a focal point in the country's ongoing debate over nuclear power as an energy solution.

The congressman's remarks reflect growing calls from some sectors for the government to reconsider its position on nuclear energy. Proponents argue that the BNPP represents a significant infrastructure asset that could help address the nation's rising electricity demands and support the transition toward cleaner energy sources.

The future of the Bataan facility remains uncertain, with the government's policy on nuclear power continuing to evolve. Energy sector experts and lawmakers have increasingly raised questions about whether the country can afford to leave the completed plant idle as demand for baseload power generation continues to mount.