The Philippines received an encouraging assessment from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) on nuclear power program following the conclusion of the follow-up Integrated Nuclear Infrastructure Review (INIR) mission to the Philippines from Dec. 2 to 6, 2024 in Manila.
Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla said the IAEA’s recognition of the country’s progress in addressing most of the recommendations and suggestions from the initial 2018 INIR mission reflected the Philippine government’s steadfast commitment to developing a robust nuclear power program.
The follow-up mission team noted that the Philippines made significant progress to address most of the recommendations and suggestions and adopted a national position for a nuclear energy program.
“We have made considerable advancements, including adopting a clear national position on nuclear energy through a Presidential Executive Order, drafting a comprehensive nuclear law, and strengthening our capacities in human resource development, regulatory frameworks, radiation protection, radioactive waste management, and emergency preparedness and response,” Lotilla said over the weekend.
The mission said the Philippines had drafted and advanced a comprehensive nuclear law towards enactment; completed assessments in human resource development, regulatory framework, radiation protection, radioactive waste management and emergency preparedness and response; and drafted policies and strategies in the relevant areas.
“I thank the IAEA for its invaluable partnership and for conducting this objective and professional review, which underscores the Philippines’ commitment to adhering to global standards and best practices in nuclear infrastructure development. This collaboration strengthens our ability to adopt nuclear energy responsibly alongside renewable energy sources, driving us closer to our goal of inclusive and sustainable economic growth,” Lotilla said.
INIR missions are based on the IAEA Milestones Approach, with its 19 infrastructure issues, three phases (consider, prepare and construct) and three milestones (decide, contract and commission/operate).
The INIR team considers the comments made by the relevant national organizations in developing its recommendations. However, the implementation of any of the team’s recommendations and suggestions is at the discretion of the member state requesting the mission.
The results of the INIR mission are expected to help the member state develop an action plan to fill any gaps, which in turn will help the development of the national nuclear infrastructure.
“The Philippine Department of Energy remains fully committed to working with the IAEA and all stakeholders as we continue to build a future where clean, reliable, and affordable energy powers the progress of the country and the Filipino people,” Lotilla said.
