DOST seeks independent regulator for nuke plants

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MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) on Monday called for the establishment of an independent nuclear regulator, citing the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) position that “regulatory functions should be separate from promotion and research work.”

The DOST’s call comes after President Duterte signed Executive Order No. 164, which would allow the inclusion of nuclear power in the country’s energy mix.

The Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI), an agency under the DOST, will serve as the research and development institute of nuclear science and will act as a regulator to protect the health and safety of workers.

“[The] DOST, however, is advocating for the creation of an independent nuclear regulator through legislation,” the agency said.

EO 164 was the first of 19 milestones of the IAEA, a United Nations agency that supervises countries planning to use nuclear power.

“The EO anchored on IAEA prescriptions on nuclear power, which focuses primarily on the safe, secure and peaceful use of nuclear energy, to ensure that the country will apply the highest standards in the implementation of a Nuclear Energy Program,” the DOST said.

The DOST vowed to help strengthen the country’s nuclear workforce through scholarships for nuclear engineering and science.

As early as 2019, the DOST-PNRI had launched nuclear education programs at the University of the Philippines Diliman and Mapua University.

Meanwhile, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration and Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology will support the implementation of the EO by vetting possible locations of nuclear power plants.

“Nuclear power is envisioned to bring down the cost of electricity and to contribute to energy security considering the various limitations now being encountered in the other sources,” the DOST said.

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