THE Philippines reaffirmed its commitment to nuclear disarmament, non-proliferation, and the peaceful use of nuclear technology during the recent meeting of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) board of governors held from March 2 to 6, 2026.
The statement came as the Philippines continues its two-year term as a member of the IAEA’s 35-seat governing board, following its election in September 2025.
During the meeting at the agency’s headquarters in Vienna, Evangelina Bernas, the country’s permanent representative and ambassador to the IAEA, highlighted the Philippines’ ongoing efforts to promote the safe and peaceful applications of nuclear science and technology.
“These initiatives demonstrate the country’s commitment to advancing the safe, secure, and peaceful applications of nuclear science and technology,” Bernas said.
New nuclear safety law
Bernas cited the enactment of Republic Act (RA) 12305, signed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in September 2025, as a key milestone in strengthening the country’s nuclear governance framework.
The law establishes the Philippine Atomic Energy Authority (PhilATOM), an independent regulatory body tasked with overseeing all nuclear and radiation-related activities in the country.
PhilATOM will ensure that nuclear energy development in the Philippines complies with the highest international safety and security standards set by the IAEA.
The legislation forms part of the government’s broader effort to explore nuclear power as a potential source of clean and secure energy as the country transitions toward more sustainable energy resources.
Bernas also highlighted the Philippines’ hosting of the International High-Level Forum on Nutec Plastics held on Nov. 23–24, 2025, in Pasay.
The forum gathered more than 400 participants, including 140 delegates from 59 countries and high-level representatives from Indonesia, Hungary, Kuwait, South Africa and Thailand.
The event focused on the use of nuclear science and related technologies to address plastic pollution, including techniques that can track microplastics in marine environments and improve plastic recycling processes.
Officials said the forum also promoted partnerships among governments, scientists and industry stakeholders in advancing circular economy practices and environmental sustainability.
