YOUTH leaders, church representatives, private citizens, and environmental groups expressed strong opposition to the proposed construction of a nuclear power plant in the coastal town of Labrador, Pangasinan, citing concerns over environmental safety, seismic risks, and potential threats to local livelihoods.

Kabataan Partylist Pangasinan joined protest actions and motorcade around Labrador to voice resistance to the project and coordinated with various sectors, including the Diocese of Lingayen-Dagupan and environmental organizations under the PeaceNet network, to consolidate opposition to the plan, said Angelo Tejoso, coordinator.

Tejoso said one of the group’s main concerns is the long-term impact of the project on the community, warning that Labrador could become a “ghost town” if residents are displaced or if economic activity declines due to safety fears surrounding a nuclear facility.

Environmental groups have also raised alarm over geological risks in the area, citing the report of an environmental scientist Faye Centeno that an active fault line runs along the Lingayen Gulf, extending to Zambales and passing through Labrador, posing a serious safety risk to any nuclear installation in the area.

Tejoso further questioned the country’s readiness to manage nuclear technology, saying the Philippines lacks sufficient expertise in nuclear science.

He added that foreign workers could end up filling highly technical positions, while local communities bear the potential risks of the facility.

Instead of pursuing nuclear energy, Kabataan Partylist called on the government to prioritize investments in agriculture and fisheries, noting that Labrador is part of Pangasinan’s productive agricultural zone.

Despite uncertainty over whether their appeal will influence policy decisions, the group said it will continue engaging farmers, fisherfolk, church groups, and other stakeholders to expand opposition to the proposed nuclear power plant in Labrador, across Pangasinan’s Second District, and in other parts of the country.

Pangasinan 2nd district representative Mark Cojuangco, a staunch proponent of the utilization of nuclear energy, is eyeing the construction of a nuclear power plant in Labrador with promises of jobs and cheaper electricity for Labrador residents. (Ahikam Pasion)