Efforts are underway to strengthen the country’s nuclear safety and security framework as lawmakers push for the ratification of key international conventions governing the peaceful use of nuclear technology.
During a recent Senate hearing, several international agreements aimed at ensuring strict global standards on nuclear safety, liability, and radioactive waste management were discussed as the Philippines explores the possible inclusion of nuclear energy in its long-term energy mix.
Among the agreements under Senate review are the Convention on Supplementary Compensation for Nuclear Damage, the Convention on Nuclear Safety, the Protocol to Amend the Vienna Convention on Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage, and the Joint Convention on the Safety of Spent Fuel Management and on the Safety of Radioactive Waste Management.
The proposed ratifications are seen as part of broader efforts to align the country with international nuclear governance standards before any large-scale nuclear energy program is implemented.
Lawmakers also raised questions regarding the implementation of Republic Act No. 12305, or the Philippine National Nuclear Energy Safety Act, which mandates the creation of the Philippine Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority, an independent body tasked with regulating the safe, secure, and peaceful use of nuclear energy and radiation sources in the country.
Sen. Win Gatchalian stressed the need to prioritize strict safety protocols and regulatory safeguards as the country considers alternative energy sources amid volatile global fuel prices.
“Mahalagang pag-aralan na isama ang nuclear energy sa energy mix ng bansa sa gitna ng pabago-bagong presyo ng gasolina sa buong mundo, ngunit kailangan din nating unahin ang mahigpit na mga pamantayan sa kaligtasan bago ito ganap na gamitin,” Gatchalian said.
The government has been studying nuclear energy as a possible option to help address long-term energy security concerns and rising electricity demand.