Senator Gregorio Honasan Saturday reiterated the need for a stable supply of power in the country, particularly in the Visayas, especially in the face of upcoming automated national elections.

Honasan, chairperson of the Senate Energy Committee, was reacting to proposals for the re-commissioning of the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant as an answer to power outages and projected power shortages in the country by 2012.

Speaking at the sidelines of the Philippine Guardians Brotherhood Inc. 8th National Convention in Bacolod City, Honasan said that beyond the proposed nuclear power plant reactivation is “the overriding objective in the power sector of making sure that we have, for the short, medium, and long term, the steady supply of energy from whatever source.”

“I’m concerned about the Visayas because the frequency of power outages is of serious concern to us, especially on the eve of elections…can you imagine brownouts during the elections? What will that do to our electoral process?” Honasan asked.

Pangasinan Rep. Mark Cojuangco who is pushing for the re-commissioning and commercial operation of BNPP in Morong, Bataan, said that “It is imperative that we run the BNPP, and look at nuclear power as an alternative source of power for the country.”

Honasan said there is a need for more studies and to consider all inputs from the different sectors on the proposal and a venue should be developed for its opponents to air their sides.

Senator Mar Roxas, who was also in Negros Saturday, had the same view, saying that the move to re-commission the BNPP should be studied well, although he added that it would be a big help if it is safe.

Roxas also called on the Department of Energy, the Senate Energy Committee and its counterpart in of the House of Representatives to investigate the bid of the National Power Corp for a rate increase in the Visayas.

Roxas said all means and opportunities must be considered to find ways to lower prices of electricity. *PP

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