Senate OKs bill seeking creation of PhilATOM, legal framework of nuclear energy use
The Senate approved on third and final reading the proposed measure which provides a comprehensive and legal framework of the safe utilization of nuclear energy in the country.
With 23 affirmative votes on Monday, Senate Bill 2899 also seeks the establishment of the Philippine Atomic Regulatory Authority.
This measure aims to harness the peaceful, safe, and secure use of atomic energy to provide benefits to the Philippines in the fields of energy production, health and medicine, scientific research, agriculture, industry, education, and others.
Further, this seeks the use of nuclear energy only for peaceful purposes, such that facilities and activities related to the acquisition or development of nuclear explosives, radiological dispersal devices and other non-peaceful uses of nuclear or other radioactive material or technology, including assisting others, are strictly prohibited.
Under the proposed law, the PhilATOM shall have sole and exclusive jurisdiction to exercise regulatory control in accordance with the measure for the peaceful, safe, and secure uses of nuclear energy and radiation sources in the Philippines.
The PhilATOM shall serve as the point of contact for providing any information or assistance regarding nuclear or radiological emergencies under the terms of relevant international instruments to which the Philippines is a party.
In 2023, the House of Representatives already passed the proposed bill seeking to create the PhilATOM and a legal framework that will facilitate the country's foray into nuclear energy.
The Marcos administration has been keen on exploring the use of nuclear energy in the country. —RF, GMA Integrated News
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