By Carlo ArcillaFOR THE SECOND TIME in his presidency, President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. highlighted the urgent need to integrate nuclear energy into the Philippines’ power grid. Energy Density and Grid ReliabilityThe primary advantage of nuclear power lies in energy density. Unlike fossil fuels or renewables, which derive power from atomic electron interactions, nuclear power splits the atomic nucleus. Furthermore, energy discussions must account for capacity factor:• Nuclear Power: Operates at approximately 92% availability, delivering reliable baseload power. Re-evaluating the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant and Waste ManagementThe 620-megawatt Bataan Nuclear Power Plant (BNPP), constructed by Westinghouse in the 1970s, remains mothballed due to historical safety concerns.