Story perspectives

Southeast Asia Embraces Nuclear Energy Amid Rising Oil Prices

4/3/2026

Center

Southeast Asia Embraces Nuclear

Rising global oil prices and energy security concerns push Southeast Asia to reconsider nuclear energy.
Following Iran's blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, the Philippines seeks safe tanker passage from Iran.
Vietnam and Russia have signed a deal for a nuclear power plant, signaling a regional shift toward nuclear energy.
Indonesia and Thailand are planning nuclear projects, while public acceptance remains low and experts warn of technological and perception challenges.

Right

Marcos Faces Discontent

The Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos faces growing public discontent as rising fuel prices strain households.
During a press conference on March 26, the 72-year-old jeepney driver Jaime Ricafrente said he was excluded from government aid.
The government declared a national energy emergency to prompt scrutiny over its preparedness.
Analysts say economic pressures could weaken Marcos's influence as Vice-President Sara Duterte emerges as a potential rival.

History

Historical Context

The Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, established in 1970, aimed to promote peaceful nuclear energy. In the Philippines, the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant, completed in 1984 but never operational, symbolizes ongoing public skepticism about nuclear energy. Amid rising oil prices, Southeast Asian nations, including Vietnam, are now reconsidering nuclear options to address energy security challenges, reflecting a significant shift in regional energy policy.

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Southeast Asia Embraces Nuclear

Rising global oil prices and energy security concerns push Southeast Asia to reconsider nuclear energy.
Following Iran's blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, the Philippines seeks safe tanker passage from Iran.
Vietnam and Russia have signed a deal for a nuclear power plant, signaling a regional shift toward nuclear energy.
Indonesia and Thailand are planning nuclear projects, while public acceptance remains low and experts warn of technological and perception challenges.

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