President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has approved a measure establishing a new independent body that will regulate the country’s use of nuclear energy and radiation sources.
Republic Act No. 12305, or the Philippine National Nuclear Energy Safety Act, paves the way for the creation of the Philippine Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority (PhilATOM), a quasi-judicial agency tasked with overseeing nuclear safety standards.
According to the Presidential Communications Office, “PhilATOM will be tasked with protecting people and the environment from the harmful effects of ionizing 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.”
The new law also mandates PhilATOM to coordinate with the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) in strengthening nuclear emergency preparedness.
Strict prohibitions are outlined in the measure, including unauthorized siting, construction, operation, or decommissioning of nuclear and radiation facilities. It also covers illegal handling and trade of radioactive materials, use or testing of radiation generators, and mismanagement of radioactive waste.
Violations under the law carry hefty penalties, with fines of up to ₱100 million and possible imprisonment.
