PH approves creation of independent nuclear regulator
Amongst the body’s duties is the issuance of permits for nuclear-related activities.
The Philippines has approved a law that will establish an independent nuclear regulator to ensure the safe and peaceful use of this energy source.
According to the government, Republic Act No. 12305, or the Philippine National Nuclear Energy Safety Act, creates the Philippine Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority (PhilATOM), a quasi-judicial body with exclusive jurisdiction over nuclear energy regulation.
This will be tasked with protecting people and the environment from the harmful effects of ionising radiation, issuing licenses for nuclear-related activities, and ensuring compliance with international commitments such as those with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The agency will also regulate the transport, storage, and disposal of radioactive materials.
PhilATOM will be responsible for ensuring nuclear emergency preparedness in coordination with the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council.
The law also establishes strict safeguards for the handling, storage, transportation, and disposal of nuclear and radioactive materials. It also prohibits the unauthorised siting, construction, operation, commissioning, and decommissioning of a nuclear or radiation facility; acquisition, production, manufacture, import, export, distribution, sale, transfer, use, storage, or disposal of nuclear or other radioactive materials; use of or testing of radiation generators; and radioactive waste management activities.
