Scientists, students and professionals in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics protested on March 25 at the UP Asian Institute of Tourism. They condemned the plan to build a US military-linked experimental nuclear reactor on UP Diliman land in Quezon City.

The Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI) and Valar Atomics signed an agreement in March 2025 to build a 100-kilowatt micro reactor called “Ward One.” A subsidiary of Valar in the Philippines, the Valar Atomics Research Institute will lead the project. The small plant does not aim to supply electricity but only to serve as an experiment for future commercial reactors.

Valar Atomics is funded by Anduril Industries, a US advanced weapons and technology manufacturing company. The direct connection between Valar Atomics and Anduril Technology with the US military forewarns this technology’s future function.

The plan is part of the US-Marcos regime’s push to establish a functioning nuclear plant in the country by 2032. It is also covered by the 123 Agreement for Civil Nuclear Energy Cooperation between the Philippines and the US.

Meanwhile, the second World Nuclear Supply Chain Conference will be held in Taguig City in May. The World Nuclear Association will lead the event to strengthen the global supply for nuclear projects. In partnership with the puppet Marcos regime, the event will introduce US nuclear companies to Asia.