LOCAL and international stakeholders recently convened to discuss the ambitious proposal of converting the long-dormant Bataan Nuclear Power Plant (BNPP) in Morong into a cutting-edge data center.
The meeting brought together key representatives from the Asian Development Bank (ADB), government officials, and private sector experts to explore collaboration opportunities and potential funding for the project.
Among those leading the discussions were Bataan Second District Representative Abet Garcia, Bataan Third District Congresswoman Gila Garcia, ADB Philippines Country Director Pavit Ramachandran, ADB Private Sector Development Regional Head Pratish Halady, and Architect Henry Mayuga. Representatives from the Provincial Government of Bataan were also present, reflecting a shared commitment to aligning national and local priorities in reimagining the BNPP’s future.
Rep. Abet Garcia underscored the strategic importance of repurposing the BNPP, which has stood idle for decades, into a hub for digital innovation.
“This project represents our dedication to leveraging modern technology for economic growth while prioritizing sustainability and maximizing the potential of existing resources,” Garcia said.
ADB Country Director Pavit Ramachandran echoed this sentiment, expressing the bank’s enthusiasm for the project. “ADB is eager to support transformative initiatives like this, which align with our mission to foster inclusive and sustainable development.
The proposed data center has the potential to become a model for infrastructure repurposing in the region,” he said.
The project envisions repurposing the BNPP’s resilient infrastructure to meet the growing demands of the digital age by transforming it into a high-capacity data center.
Discussions also highlighted the integration of sustainable practices in the design, ensuring both environmental and economic benefits for Bataan and beyond.
Stakeholders left the meeting optimistic about the project’s potential, with next steps including feasibility studies, technical assessments, and identifying funding sources.
The collaboration between the Provincial Government of Bataan, ADB, and private sector partners is expected to accelerate progress and attract additional investments to the region.
As Bataan positions itself as a hub for innovation and sustainability, the BNPP transformation exemplifies how public-private partnerships can drive economic progress and technological advancement, setting a benchmark for infrastructure repurposing across the Philippines and beyond.