The Department of Energy (DOE) is taking steps to achieve energy sustainability, according to Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi.

“All options in power sourcing should be considered, including the possibility of tapping nuclear energy in the future,” said Cusi, who was in Bacolod City last Thursday, May 13.

Cusi met with Mayor Evelio Leonardia and other city officials, as well as barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) officials in the city.

In their meeting, Cusi discussed the proposed utilization of renewable energy including nuclear energy in the Philippines and Duterte’s take on the West Philippine Sea issue.

According to the Energy secretary, the DOE is committed to fully implementing Republic Act 9513, or the “Renewable Energy Act of 2008,” which promotes the development of the country’s renewable resources geared towards energy sustainability.

Cusi said that the current administration 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 industrialization goals.

He added that the DOE supports the President’s pronouncements to ensure the safe utilization of all energy sources, especially with the renewed interest in nuclear energy technology.

“This is why the DOE is looking at developing all possible energy sources, including nuclear, to help the Philippines become energy secure,” he added.

Cusi also said that the DOE is prepared to take steps for the preservation of the country’s resources in the West Philippine Sea.

The national government is prepared to assert the country’s sovereign rights over oil and other resources in the West Philippine Sea should any foreign power engage in petroleum-related activities there, the DOE head stressed.

Cusi also encouraged Bacolodnons to help the President win against COVID-19 by following health protocols, like wearing of face masks and observing social distancing./WDJ