During the 20th century’s wave of energy modernization, Southeast Asia once dared to dream bigger: to build its very first nuclear power plant.

The Philippines, through the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant (BNPP) project, became the first country in the region to pursue atomic energy.

The Birth of Ambition

In the early 1970s, the Philippines was hit hard by an energy crisis triggered by a surge in global oil prices. To reduce dependence on imported oil, President Ferdinand Marcos pushed for the construction of the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant (BNPP).

The project aimed not only to meet growing energy demands but also to showcase the Philippines' technological progress and strengthen its position on the international stage. Designed with a capacity of 621 megawatts, BNPP was envisioned as a milestone in the country's national energy infrastructure.

Why It Became a "Dream"

When BNPP was announced, it was hailed as a symbol of the Philippines' optimism in pursuing energy independence and modernization. Amid the global oil crisis, nuclear energy was promoted as a clean, affordable, and sustainable solution to support economic growth.

The initial plan was for two reactors, but the project was later scaled down to a single unit. By partnering with Westinghouse Electric, the Philippines sought to demonstrate its ability to compete in advanced technology.

But despite high hopes, the BNPP never became operational - and today it remains a powerful symbol of unfulfilled ambition.

When Dreams Began to Crumble

Although the BNPP was initially seen as the future of Philippine energy, various problems began to surface during its construction.

1. Cost Escalation and Allegations of Corruption

The BNPP project experienced a significant cost overrun, rising from an initial estimate of around US$500 million to more than US$2.2 billion by its completion in 1984. This sharp increase fueled allegations of corruption and collusion, particularly involving Herminio Disini, a close associate of President Ferdinand Marcos, who was accused of receiving a US$50 million commission from the main contractor, Westinghouse Electric.

While Marcos and his wife, Imelda, were eventually cleared due to lack of evidence, a Philippine court ordered Disini to return the funds to the state.

2. Safety Concerns and Site Risks

The location of the BNPP near an active fault line and Mount Natib, a dormant volcano, raised serious safety concerns.

Following the Three Mile Island nuclear accident in 1979, a safety audit revealed over 4,000 defects in the plant’s construction, including issues with electrical systems and piping.
Although some repairs were made, many problems remained unresolved.

3. Political Upheaval and the Decision to Shut Down

The overthrow of Marcos in 1986 brought significant political changes that affected the fate of the BNPP. In addition, the Chernobyl disaster in April 1986 dramatically heightened global fears about nuclear safety, prompting the new government under President Corazon Aquino to decide against operating the BNPP.

The decision was based on safety and economic considerations, as well as mounting public pressure over the potential risks of nuclear power.

After a Deferred Dream: The Revitalization Discourse

After lying dormant for more than three decades, the BNPP has once again become a focal point in the Philippines’ energy strategy.

The government sees tremendous potential in reviving the project to meet the country’s growing energy demands and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

1. Government Support and Int. Cooperation

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has consistently advocated for the development of nuclear energy as a solution to provide affordable electricity for both Filipino households and businesses.

As part of this effort, the Philippine government partnered with South Korea through Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power (KHNP) to conduct a feasibility study on rehabilitating the BNPP.
This agreement was signed in October 2024 as part of the broader effort to strengthen the strategic partnership between the two countries.

2. Roadmap and Operational Targets

The Philippine Department of Energy has launched a nuclear energy roadmap targeting the commercial operation of nuclear power plants by 2032, beginning with an initial capacity of 1,200 megawatts and gradually increasing to 4,800 megawatts by 2050.

The BNPP is considered a key component in achieving these goals, given its existing infrastructure and strategic location near Manila’s major electricity demand centers.

3. Challenges and Safety Considerations

Despite growing optimism, the revival of BNPP faces significant challenges, including concerns over safety, rehabilitation costs, and nuclear waste management.

A study by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies emphasizes that nuclear energy demands a long-term commitment, including the establishment of waste management facilities and the development of a skilled workforce.

The Lessons the Philippines Must Learn

Given BNPP’s troubled history, the Philippines must build its nuclear energy future with greater wisdom. Transparency and accountability are essential to prevent the corruption and cost overruns that plagued the project in the past.

Investment in education and workforce training must be prioritized to ensure that nuclear facilities can be operated safely.

Equally important, the government must engage the public through open education efforts to build trust and dispel fears surrounding nuclear energy.