Filipino women are making remarkable strides in nuclear science, driving research, policy, and education in the field. Recognizing their invaluable contributions, Alpas Pinas, a non-profit organization advocating for clean and reliable energy, marked Women’s Month with a media briefing highlighting the role of women in nuclear science and technology.
The event was led by Alpas Pinas Convenor Gayle Certeza and featured key figures such as Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI) Deputy Director Vallerie Ann Samson and PNRI Director Dr. Carlo Arcilla. The discussion centered on the significant role women play in nuclear research and how their expertise is shaping the future of the industry.
PNRI has long been a proponent of gender inclusivity in the sciences. According to its 2022 report, women constitute 46% of the institute’s workforce, with 35% holding technical positions. This demonstrates the organization’s commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive research environment. Samson emphasized that PNRI’s women scientists are at the forefront of research in nuclear applications for food and agriculture, healthcare, environmental protection, and education.
“At PNRI, we celebrate women and girls in this field who are not only shaping the future of PNRI but also inspiring the next generation of researchers, leaders, and innovators,” Samson stated.
Dr. Arcilla reinforced PNRI’s dedication to gender equality, highlighting the agency’s Gender and Development (GAD) initiatives that promote inclusivity in research and policy-making. He also emphasized the importance of increasing female representation at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), advocating for more leadership opportunities for women in nuclear science.
Pangasinan 2nd District Representative Mark Cojuangco, an advocate for nuclear energy, also attended the event. He cited esteemed economist Prof. Winnie Monsod as a leading voice in championing nuclear power for the country’s energy security. Cojuangco reiterated that policymakers must continue supporting women-led efforts in nuclear science to ensure the Philippines’ transition to a sustainable energy future.
Certeza closed the event with a call to action, emphasizing the need to break barriers and continue empowering women in nuclear science, “Nuclear science is about breaking barriers in representation. The Philippines has proven that women can lead in this field, and it is our responsibility to continue supporting their journey toward a future powered by clean, cheap, and reliable energy that will mean cheaper electric rates for all Filipinos.”
With growing recognition of their expertise, Filipino women are proving that they are at the forefront of nuclear science, shaping the nation’s energy landscape for the better.