Alpas Pinas Highlights Filipino Women Leading the Charge in Nuclear Science, Energy Advocacy

“At PNRI, we celebrate women and girls in this field who are not only shaping the future of PNRI but also inspiring the next generation of researchers, leaders, and innovators.” ~Vallerie Ann Samson, Deputy Director of PNRI

Since the beginning of the twentieth century, women have made significant progress. Women are now at the forefront of determining the future of the world, from voting rights to running governments and multinational corporations.

Women have also taken the lead in the field of nuclear science. True trailblazers include pioneering scientists like Lise Meitner, who helped discover nuclear fission, and Marie Curie, who cleared the path for studies on radioactivity. The fact that Filipino women are leading the way in nuclear research, policy, and education, however, is less well known, demonstrating that gender is not a barrier to excellence in the field.

For years, the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI) has been a strong supporter of gender inclusivity, with women leading research initiatives and holding key leadership positions.  According to the PNRI 2022 report, women account for 46% of the total workforce, with 35% in technical positions and 9% in administrative roles. This significant representation demonstrates PNRI's commitment to creating a more inclusive environment in nuclear science, one in which women play an important role in driving innovation and progress.

Recognizing this growing influence, Alpas Pinas, a non-profit organization that advocates for clean, affordable, and dependable energy, commemorated Women's Month by hosting a media briefing to highlight the critical contributions of women in nuclear science and technology.  This initiative is consistent with the organization's larger mission of promoting gender diversity in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) while accelerating discussions about nuclear energy as a key component of the Philippines' energy mix.

The media briefing, led by Alpas Pinas Convenor Gayle Certeza and attended by PNRI Deputy Director Vallerie Ann Samson, shed light on PNRI's extensive nuclear science research initiatives and how women have played an important role in these advancements.

Samson discussed the PNRI's ongoing research into nuclear applications in food and agriculture, healthcare, environmental protection, and education.  She emphasized the critical role of female scientists in moving these projects forward.

Dr. Carlo Arcilla, PNRI Director, also attended the event and emphasized the institution's long-standing commitment to gender equality in nuclear science. PNRI actively promotes an inclusive environment through its Gender and Development (GAD) initiatives, which promote gender equity in learning, research, and specialized nuclear services. The institute also advocates for gender-neutral language and has set up an online GAD Help Desk to support these efforts.

"We acknowledge the progress made, but there is still work to be done. It is crucial to ensure more balanced representation, especially at senior and policy-making levels, and I am glad we get to practice this at PNRI." ~Dr. Carlo Arcilla, PNRI Director

Arcilla has also been an outspoken advocate for gender equality at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). During the 61st Regular Session of the IAEA General Conference, he emphasized the importance of balanced representation within the agency in order to track progress toward closing gender gaps.

“Women are championing nuclear science in the Philippines, and we are here to ensure that their work is backed by policies that will drive the country forward.” ~Cong. Mark Cojuangco, Pangasinan 2nd District Representative

Representative Cong of the Pangasinan 2nd District was among those present. Cojuangco Mark.  Together with renowned economist Prof. Winnie Monsod, Cojuangco recently spoke at a forum held by the UP School of Economics Alumni Association (UPSEAA) about how female experts like Monsod have long argued for its potential to improve the nation's energy security. Her and other female thought leaders' perspectives highlight the significance of carrying on the discussion and expanding on earlier attempts to include nuclear power in the Philippines' energy mix.

“Nuclear science is about breaking barriers in representation. The Philippines has proven that women can lead in this field, and it is our responsibility to continue supporting their journey toward a future powered by clean, cheap, and reliable energy that will mean cheaper electric rates for all Filipinos.” ~Gayle Certeza, Alpas Pinas Convenor

 

Certeza echoed this sentiment by delivering a powerful message to cap off the media briefing, resonating with all the attendees.

 

Stand Up For Nuclear Philippines Nuclear Now: Malinis, Maasahan, at Murang Kuryente Para Sa Pinas

"Nuclear power offers a game-changing solution to our energy needs. It is a clean, dependable, and economically feasible energy source that can power our nation sustainably. We hope to make nuclear a part of the country’s energy mix so Filipinos can enjoy cheaper, cleaner, and more reliable electricity." ~Mark Cojuangco, Pangasinan 2nd District Representative

In Photo (L-R) Mark Cojuangco, Pangasinan 2nd District Representative; Angelica Oung, Accomplished energy reporter from Taiwan and founder of the Clean Energy Transition Alliance (CETA); Mark Nelson, Founder and Managing Director of Radiant Energy; and Gayle Certeza, Lead Convenor of ALPAS Pinas

A groundbreaking event in the Philippines, hosted by Alpas Pinas, the nation's leading advocate for nuclear energy, in collaboration with Stand Up for Nuclear. Facts about nuclear energy, dispel myths, and discover its potential to meet our energy needs while preserving the environment and boosting the economy.

Mark Cojuangco, Pangasinan 2nd District Representative

Stand Up for Nuclear, the world’s first global initiative advocating for the protection and expansion of nuclear energy, recently convened to discuss the Philippines' readiness to embrace nuclear power at the SMX Aura, Taguig City.

Alpas Pinas' Goals: 

• Educate and Inform: We're here to educate the public about the benefits of nuclear energy and debunk common misconceptions. 
• Advocate and Lobby: We're actively pushing for nuclear energy adoption and seeking support from all branches of government. 
• Economic Growth and Environmental Preservation: Embracing nuclear energy can drive economic growth, environmental protection, and poverty alleviation. 

Organizing this year’s event and the leading voice in the call to Stand Up for Nuclear was ALPAS Pinas, a non-stock, non-profit organization dedicated to promoting nuclear energy as a clean and sustainable source of power. The event aimed to illuminate nuclear power's potential in the Philippines and underscore its advantages during these critical times.

“As advocates for nuclear energy, our mission is to effectively communicate its benefits and work toward a sustainable energy future for the Philippines. Amid the looming energy crisis, it is high time for us to realize the advantages of nuclear energy.” ~Gayle Certeza, Lead Convenor of ALPAS Pinas

Gayle Certeza, Lead Convenor of ALPAS Pinas

With the theme “Nuclear Now: Malinis, Maasahan, at Murang Kuryente para sa PINAS,” the event featured other eminent personalities in the field of nuclear energy, including Pangasinan 2nd District Representative Mark Cojuangco, a staunch advocate for nuclear energy and recipient of the American Nuclear Society (ANS) Distinguished Public Service Award.

Cojuangco also chairs the House Special Committee on Nuclear Energy and sponsors, among other solons, the House Bill No. 8218, aimed at establishing the Philippine Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority (PhilATOM) and provide for a comprehensive legal framework for radiation protection, nuclear security, safety, and safeguards in the utilization of nuclear energy in the country.

Meanwhile, Mark Nelson, founder and managing director of Radiant Energy, brought his extensive experience to the table.

"Nuclear energy has proven itself as a powerful tool in the global effort to combat climate change. With its minimal greenhouse gas emissions and round-the-clock power generation, nuclear energy is an essential component of a sustainable energy portfolio. The Philippines, in particular, stands to benefit significantly by considering nuclear energy as part of its energy mix, making it a strategic resource to meet its growing energy demands." ~Mark Nelson, Founder and Managing Director of Radiant Energy

Mark Nelson, Founder and Managing Director of Radiant Energy

Angelica Oung, an accomplished energy reporter from Taiwan and founder of the Clean Energy Transition Alliance (CETA), echoed this sentiment with a focus on broader benefits.

“CETA firmly believes that embracing nuclear power can be a game-changer for the Philippines in terms of energy security and decarbonization. Beyond addressing immediate energy needs, nuclear energy can pave the way for cleaner and more resilient energy systems, ultimately reducing the country's carbon footprint and contributing to a greener, more sustainable future.” ~Angelica Oung, Accomplished energy reporter from Taiwan and founder of the Clean Energy Transition Alliance (CETA)

Angelica Oung, Accomplished energy reporter from Taiwan and founder of the Clean Energy Transition Alliance (CETA)

With the largest international pro-nuclear network, Stand Up for Nuclear serves as the catalyst that motivates allies and provides them with the support, resources, and skills needed to become effective leaders. When individuals participate in Stand Up for Nuclear, they become connected with others around the world. 

ALPAS Pinas is among the more than 38 independent grassroots civil society organizations participating in Stand Up for Nuclear across the globe.