Senator Alan Peter Cayetano stressed the need for a regulatory framework for nuclear energy as he pushed for a bill to establish the Philippine Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority (PhilATOM).
The proposed measure aims to enhance the safety, security, and peaceful utilization of nuclear energy in the country.
Senate Bill No. 2899 seeks to institutionalize PhilATOM as an independent regulatory body with exclusive authority over nuclear safety and security.
Filed under Committee Report No. 429 on December 10, 2024, Senate Bill No. 2899 or the Philippine National Nuclear Energy Safety Act seeks to institutionalize PhilATOM as an independent regulatory body with exclusive authority over nuclear safety and security.
Its mandate includes developing policies, setting safety standards, conducting inspections, and overseeing the transport, storage, and disposal of radioactive materials.
“It’s precisely to have the institution and the right people to be able to assess the use of nuclear energy in our country.”
“Doon sa mga may agam-agam, may doubt sa nuclear power plant at nuclear energy: this bill is not to put up a nuclear power plant. It’s precisely to have the institution and the right people to be able to assess the use of nuclear energy in our country,” Cayetano explained.
The legislation consolidates provisions from existing laws and international guidelines to ensure comprehensive oversight. It specifies penalties for unauthorized handling or misuse of nuclear materials and prioritizes public health, safety, and environmental protection.
The bill also mandates PhilATOM to develop a national plan for off-site nuclear or radiological emergencies, integrate these plans with national disaster frameworks, and coordinate with international organizations like the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
The veteran legislator highlighted the potential benefits of nuclear energy, including its role in advancing medicine and agriculture and addressing climate change.
As the Philippines anticipates the integration of nuclear energy into its energy mix, the seasoned lawmaker assured the public of stringent safety measures, transparency, and accountability under the proposed regulatory framework.
The bill has gained support from various stakeholders, including scientists, energy experts, and policymakers who view it as a step toward a modern and sustainable future.
“For the purpose of passing this bill, we’ll try as much as possible to separate it so that hindi tayo ma-delay… I’ll really try to get it on the floor ASAP,” the senator said.
The bill is expected to undergo further deliberation in the Senate during the current session.
