Labrador town open to host nuclear facility
THE municipality of Labrador has expressed openness to becoming the host site for the country’s first modern nuclear power plant, following a town hall meeting spearheaded by 2nd District Rep. Mark Cojuangco, principal author of the recently enacted Philippine Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority (PhilAtom) Law.
The town hall aimed to foster public dialogue on nuclear energy as a solution to high electricity costs and as a driver of local and national economic development.
The event was held in partnership with the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI), led by Director Carlo Arcilla, and attended by local government officials and residents of Labrador.
“With nuclear power, Labrador can access the cheapest and most reliable electricity in the country —down to P5 per kilowatt hour. In fact, with the right framework, we can even extend free electricity for the people of Labrador,” said Cojuangco, a staunch advocate of nuclear energy.
He said Labrador’s strategic location along the Lingayen Gulf and the community’s openness make it a strong candidate for nuclear development.
Cojuangco cited the 2024 Social Weather Stations (SWS) Survey on Nuclear Energy, which revealed a 76% nationwide acceptance rate for nuclear power, including in areas near existing facilities such as Bataan. He expressed dismay that the Department of Energy (DOE) initially withheld the survey results before releasing them publicly in September 2025.
Arcilla explained that the new law creates an independent regulatory body — the Philippine Atomic Energy Regulatory and Safety Authority (PhilATOM) — responsible for ensuring nuclear safety, security, and safeguards in line with International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) standards.
Labrador Mayor Noel Uson expressed optimism about the initiative, highlighting the economic and social impact a nuclear facility could bring. (Eva Visperas)
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