PH takes step closer to adopting nuclear energy program

The Philippines is now ready to make an informed commitment to adopt a nuclear energy program following a detailed assessment by international experts, according to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

The IAEA on Dec. 17 wrapped up an eight-day Integrated Nuclear Infrastructure Review (Inir) conducted by a multinational team.

Comprised of experts from Algeria, Morocco, Spain and the United Kingdom as well as IAEA staff, the team reviewed the status of 19 nuclear power program infrastructure issues.

The review was made upon the invitation of the government of the Philippines.

In particular, the Inir team used the Phase 1 criteria of the IAEA’s Milestones Approach, which provides detailed guidance across three phases of development—from consideration through preparation to construction.

The IAEA said in a joint statement the end of Phase-1 evaluation “marked the readiness of the [Philippines] to make a knowledgeable commitment to a nuclear power program.”

“It is evident that the Philippines is following a systematic approach to finalize its nuclear power strategy and complete the associated infrastructure development,” said Milko Kovachev, head of the IAEA’s nuclear infrastructure development section.

The Inir team noted that the Philippines’ Nuclear Energy Program Implementing Organization has completed several studies and that Congress was considering legislation.