PHL wins seat on IAEA board as emerging user of nuclear power

THE PHILIPPINES won a seat on the board of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), putting it in position to influence policy as it gears up to integrate nuclear power into its energy mix,  the Department of Energy (DoE) said.

In a statement on Wednesday, the DoE said the Philippines will serve on the IAEA board of governors until 2027.

Energy Secretary Sharon S. Garin said the Philippines will play a role in “shaping global policies on nuclear safety, security, and the peaceful use of atomic energy.”

“As one of only 35 member-states represented on the board, the Philippines will help steer key decisions on safeguards (and) technical cooperation,” she said.

According to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), the Philippines was chosen by acclamation during the 69th Regular Session of the IAEA General Conference in Vienna on Sept. 19.

The Philippines previously served on the board between 2015 and 2017.

Science and Technology Undersecretary Maridon O. Sahagun, head of the delegation to Vienna, said: “The long-standing position of the Philippines is that the peaceful uses of atomic energy are not ancillary to disarmament and non-proliferation — they are foundational pillars of peace, health, and prosperity. We aim to advance these initiatives at this key policy-making body of the IAEA.”

Ambassador to Austria Evangelina Lourdes A. Bernas, permanent representative of the Philippines to the IAEA, said: “Member-states like us who are just embarking on our nuclear energy program and rely on a rules-based international order have a chance to advocate for others like us on the Board.”

Ms. Garin added that the Philippines will be in a position to access to technical cooperation in nuclear medicine, agriculture, food security, and energy.

According to the Philippine Energy Plan, the Philippines’ first nuclear power plant is set to be built by 2032. — Sheldeen Joy Talavera