The Philippines is deepening talks with Canadian engineering and nuclear technology firm AtkinsRéalis as it explores civil nuclear power to bolster long-term energy security, support industrialization, and reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels.
On the sidelines of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s working visit to Canada, Trade Secretary Cristina A. Roque and Finance Secretary Frederick D. Go met with AtkinsRéalis executives to discuss potential cooperation in civil nuclear energy, engineering services, project development, workforce training, regulatory readiness, and technology licensing.
The company presented its CANDU EC6 reactor technology as one option under consideration as the government evaluates commercially viable and safe nuclear solutions. Through its subsidiary Candu Energy Inc., AtkinsRéalis also offers engineering, financing support, supply chain localization, and project execution—areas seen as critical as the Philippines lays the foundation for a domestic nuclear industry.
The discussions signal Manila’s growing push to diversify its energy mix as rising power demand and persistently high electricity costs continue to weigh on economic competitiveness.
“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 said.
Go said AtkinsRéalis’ global experience could also help strengthen the country’s regulatory and institutional capacity for civil nuclear development, an area widely viewed as essential before any nuclear project can move forward.
The government likewise reiterated its commitment to fast-tracking strategic investments through the Green Lane under Executive Order No. 18, with the Department of Trade and Industry, the Board of Investments, and the Philippine Trade and Investment Center in Toronto continuing engagements with the Canadian firm.
Headquartered in Montréal, AtkinsRéalis employs more than 40,000 professionals worldwide. Through Candu Energy Inc., it provides nuclear engineering, technology licensing, project planning, financing support, supply chain development, and large-scale project execution services.
