PHILIPPINES-RUSSIA NUCLEAR ENERGY COOPERATION: RATIONALE, CHALLENGES, AND WAY AHEAD

Nuclear energy is seen as a viable long-term solution for countries' increasing energy demands. It is one of the largest sources of clean energy, as by itself it produces no greenhouse gases. Nuclear energy is also always available on demand, unlike other renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric energy that are intermittent in nature. Nuclear energy also supports high-tech sectors and creates employment for scientists, technicians, support, and security personnel. It is also reliable and cost efficient, requiring miniscule amounts of fuel to produce massive amounts of energy. Russia is a world leader in nuclear energy exports. It is one of the leading contractors to build nuclear power plants and is also a leader in applications of nuclear technology in other fields. Being such, it is an ideal partner for developing countries like the Philippines to achieve long-term energy security. The Philippines relies heavily on fossil fuel imports for most of its energy needs, is seeking solutions to diversify its energy mix and reduce dependence on non-renewables. That said, both Russia and the Philippines can explore nuclear energy cooperation to serve each other's interests. However, nuclear energy is still politically and publicly unacceptable for the Philippines. Despite that, there are other fields in nuclear energy that can play a role in Philippines-Russia development cooperation. These fields include training of skilled nuclear scientists and technicians, production of radioisotopes for medical purposes, manufacturing of sterile medical equipment, and food sterilization.