Philippines Explores Civil Nuclear Energy with Canadian Firm

The Philippines is actively exploring the integration of civil nuclear energy into its long-term energy strategy, as evidenced by a recent meeting between the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and Canadian engineering firm AtkinsRéalis. This discussion took place during President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s state visit to Canada on July 2, where DTI Secretary Cristina Roque and Finance Secretary Frederick Go evaluated potential collaborations in nuclear technology.

AtkinsRéalis presented its Candu EC6 nuclear reactor technology, which utilizes natural, unenriched uranium and heavy water. This technology, known for its safety and regulatory compliance, has been implemented in 31 commercial reactors worldwide, including in Canada, Argentina, and South Korea. The Candu reactors also produce nuclear isotopes used in medical treatments, highlighting their dual utility in energy production and healthcare.

“Reliable and affordable energy is essential to industrial growth. As the Philippines studies nuclear energy as part of its long-term energy mix, we welcome AtkinsRéalis’ interest in sharing its proven engineering and nuclear technology expertise with the country.”Cristina Roque, Secretary of Trade and Industry

“Reliable and affordable energy is essential to industrial growth. As the Philippines studies nuclear energy as part of its long-term energy mix, we welcome AtkinsRéalis’ interest in sharing its proven engineering and nuclear technology expertise with the country,” Roque stated, emphasizing the importance of energy security for the nation’s industrial development.

During the discussions, the parties explored various aspects of nuclear energy implementation, including regulatory readiness, project development, and workforce training. Go noted that AtkinsRéalis could significantly contribute to strengthening the Philippines' regulatory frameworks as it moves towards adopting nuclear energy.

The Philippines is positioning itself to attract strategic investments in this sector, facilitated by mechanisms such as the Green Lane for Strategic Investments under Executive Order 18. The DTI, alongside the Board of Investments and the Philippine Trade and Investment Center in Toronto, aims to ensure effective coordination with stakeholders for subsequent discussions.

“AtkinsRéalis could contribute its global expertise as the Philippines strengthens its regulatory and institutional frameworks.”Frederick Go, Finance Secretary

AtkinsRéalis, headquartered in Montréal, employs over 40,000 professionals globally and is recognized for its expertise in engineering and nuclear technology. The meeting included key representatives from both sides, including Richard Robinson, president for Asia, Middle East, and Australia, and Sara Supa-Amornkul, director for business development at AtkinsRéalis.

President Marcos concluded his four-day visit to Canada with $2.5 billion in investment commitments from major Canadian firms. Bilateral trade between the Philippines and Canada reached approximately $2.14 billion in 2025, with Canada ranking as the Philippines’ sixth-largest merchandise export market in ASEAN.