Push to revive Bataan nuclear plant timely?

Proponents cite current volatile oil prices and clean debt slate of the mothballed power plant. But the 2010 elections is 6 months away.

MANILA, Philippines – From afar, the edifice known as the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant (BNPP) sits in quiet solitude atop the 3.5 square kilometer government property in Napot Point, framed by the lush mountainside of Mt. Natib and the clear azure skies of Morong. The power plant overlooks the South China Sea, where the sound of crashing waves drown every other sound, from seagulls to motors to the tedious community life.

But within the white structure, encased in 124-feet concrete cylinder and enclosed in layers of cement, lie the source of decades-old fear and dread: a pressurized water reactor—whose meltdown, in worst case scenarios, could spew highly toxic radioactive chemicals in surrounding areas.

The use of nuclear power in energy generation has always been a hot topic in the Philippines, where images of mushroom clouds and deadly chemicals are as contested as a comprehensive reproductive health bill. But as oil and electricity prices peak and scenarios of energy shortages emerge, groups are pushing for the rehabilitation of what critics called the “monster” of Morong.

Legislative hurdle

The renewed road to the rehabilitation of the mothballed plant fueled over discussions at the south lounge in the House of Representatives, where Pangasinan Representative Mark Cojuangco discusses with vigor the country’s energy situation with colleagues.

As global oil prices peaked and electricity rates increased in 2007, Cojuangco submitted House Bill 4631, a bill that earmarks $1 billion for the immediate re-commissioning and rehabilitation of BNPP. MORE...