2 MIN READ

By ARTEMIO DUMLAO
www.nordis.net

LABRADOR, Pangasinan—The Catholic Church has stepped up its campaign against the proposed nuclear power plant in Labrador, Pangasinan, with the Diocese of Alaminos leading a mass and protest on Sunday over concerns about potential environmental and health risks.

On January 4, Alminos Bishop Napoleon Sipalay Jr. publicly rejected the nuclear project during a Mass at St. Isidore the Farmer Parish in Labrador. His homily emphasized the Church’s role in defending life, safety, and the environment.

“The Church cannot remain silent when the welfare of communities is at stake,” Sipalay told parishioners, who responded with applause.

In a press interview, the bishop said Pangasinan Second District Rep. Mark Cojuangco informed them of the project in November. 

“Before they were able to get consent, 65 percent. But because of knowing that there is a fault line crossing through Labrador, they are again asking consent of the people,” he said, adding his plans to follow up with local officials on the development.

Sipalay urged residents “to see the whole picture, not only the short-term development,” emphasizing “intergenerational justice”—the responsibility of the present generation to ensure the people’s needs for the future. 

“If the waste material were to stay with us for thousands of years, (the youth), the future generations would also suffer. Are we going to give that waste to them?” he added.

Cojuangco, author of the Philippine National Nuclear Energy Safety Act, is an advocate of nuclear power in the country, viewing this as a means to ensure energy security and sustainability.  Meanwhile, Labrador officials have also expressed openness to hosting a nuclear power plant.

Participants signed a manifesto rejecting the plant after the mass. Residents also held a motorcade through Labrador and neighboring Sual town, where vehicles carried placards and banners opposing the project. 

Organizers said the initiative drew support from residents worried about the project’s potential impact on health, livelihoods, and coastal resources.

Sipalay’s statement reflects broader concerns within the Catholic hierarchy, with several bishops opposing nuclear energy proposals. Led by Lingayen Archbishop Socrates Villegas, 32 other bishops released a statement last December against the project.

Church leaders vowed to continue engaging the public and government through peaceful means, including dialogue and prayer. They asserted that energy development should not compromise human and environmental safety.

The proposed nuclear facility remains under discussion, but opposition is mounting. The Diocese of Alaminos said it will continue to play an active role in community efforts to block the project.

In November, Energy Secretary Sharon S. Garin announced at the World Nuclear Exhibition Ministerial Session that the government will begin accepting license applications for nuclear power plants by 2026.#nordis.net