Statement of Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi on Nuclear Energy Utilization

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The Duterte Administration, through the Department of Energy (DOE), puts premium on the provision of quality, reliable, adequate, secure and reasonably-priced energy by looking at all possible resources that the country can utilize to achieve our industrialization goals.

To diversify the energy mix, the DOE will study nuclear energy as a possible option for the Philippines.

We stand behind the President’s pronouncements on ensuring the safe utilization of all energy sources, especially with the renewed interest on nuclear energy technology.

The DOE is currently proceeding with unified and coordinated efforts and activities with the creation of a Nuclear Energy Program Implementing Organization (NEPIO).

The NEPIO is headed by a Steering Committee with top DOE officials at the helm, while DOE bureaus will create technical working groups (TWGs) to ensure effective and timely implementation of its functions and responsibilities.

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and its attached agencies, DOE attached agencies, other relevant government offices and local and international partner organizations will be asked to assist the NEPIO in its work.

During the recent IAEA International Conference on the Prospects For Nuclear Power In The Asia Pacific Region, we pointed out: “The country should have a clear position on nuclear power. A well-informed decision is key to a sustainable and comprehensive energy program. With all the new findings, technological advancements and successful experiences of countries around the world, nuclear energy holds much promise for long-term energy plans.”

Swing Back into Disco Fever with Ballet Philippines in “Awitin Mo At Isasayaw Ko” this December 2-11

Wazzup Pilipinas!

From December 2 to 11 at the CCP Main Theater, celebrate the holidays with “Awitin Mo At Isasayaw Ko”, Ballet Philippines’ new dance musical featuring the songs of popular Filipino disco group, VST & Co. The show is an exciting collaboration with ABS-CBN and the ABS-CBN Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Maestro Gerard Salonga.

“Awitin Mo At Isasayaw Ko” tells the story of the forbidden love between Teresa, a high-class kolehiyala and Victor, a construction worker. They are brought together and torn apart amidst the backdrop of the Philippines in the late ‘70s – brimming with disco fever but within the confines of Martial Law.

The show features Filipino disco favorites such as “Rock Baby Rock”, “Magsayawan”, and “Ipagpatawad Mo”, along with Bert de Leon’s “Hindi Ko Akalain, Roger Rigor’s “Ikaw ang Aking Pasko”, and Celso Llarina & Roger Rigor’s “Puwede Ba?”, all woven together by a libretto by Bibeth Orteza and transformed into dance by choreographers Carissa Adea, James Laforteza, and PJ Rebullida. It will be directed by BP artistic director Paul Alexander Morales.

Taking the lead roles of Victor and Teresa are two of Ballet Philippines’ legendary principal dancers: Nonoy Froilan and Edna Vida Froilan. Their younger selves will be portrayed by Jean Marc Cordero, Rita Angela Winder, Denise Parungao, and Garry Corpuz. 

Castelo: Emergency Powers Should Also Cover Aviations

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Addressing the country's aviation problems should be included in the emergency-powers measure being considered to enable the Duterte administration to effectively deal with the traffic crisis in Metro Manila. 

Quezon City Rep. Winston "Winnie " Castelo made the suggestion yesterday as he stressed the need for an "integrated and holistic approach to the traffic problem." 

"Metro Manila's traffic woes are just a manifestation of the decades of government's neglect of the country's transport infrastructure requirements," said Castelo, pointing out that the failure of past administrations to construct regional airports and expand the Ninoy Aquino International Airport have cause air-traffic congestion that also extends to road traffic congestion. 

"We need a complete and comprehensive transportation plan that covers land, air, and water," Castelo said. The chair of the House committee on Metro Manila development said aviation must be included in the emergency-powers bill because air traffic-congestion causes delays in take off and landing that bear huge economic losses and international embarrassment, said . 

"Also, NAIA has on always been listed among the worst airports in the world, which not only embarrasses Filipinos but more importantly discourages tourists and investors from coming to the country," he added.