Philippines establishes first nuclear regulator with PhilATOM law

The Department of Energy (DOE) hailed the signing of Republic Act No. 12305, or the Philippine Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority (PhilATOM) Act, calling it a milestone in the country’s transition to clean and secure energy.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. signed the measure into law, creating PhilATOM as the nation’s first independent nuclear regulatory body with full authority over the safe and peaceful use of nuclear energy and radiation sources.

“The passage of RA 12305 strengthens the regulatory framework that will enable the safe and secure peaceful use of nuclear energy in the country,” Energy Secretary Sharon S. Garin said.

She added that “the law modernizes nuclear regulation consistent with the latest International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) standards and global best practices.”

The Philippines recently secured a seat on the IAEA Board of Governors for the 2025–2027 term, further reinforcing its role in shaping international policies.

“The Philippines’ election to the IAEA Board of Governors fortifies its role in shaping global policies on nuclear safety, security, and the peaceful use of atomic energy,” Garin said.

PhilATOM will regulate all aspects of nuclear energy infrastructure, including site selection, construction, licensing, safety, and operation.

Electricity generation from nuclear power, however, will continue to be governed by the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA) and remain under the jurisdiction of the DOE and the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC).

Before the law’s passage, the DOE had been leading the Nuclear Energy Program Inter-Agency Committee (NEP-IAC), which is responsible for drafting the national nuclear roadmap.

The NEP-IAC coordinates government efforts to address 19 key infrastructure issues identified by the IAEA and holds public consultations, studies, and education campaigns to promote transparency and awareness.

“The Philippines’ participation in the IAEA Board and the passage of the PhilATOM law demonstrate the country’s commitment to science, innovation, and sustainable development,” Garin said.

The IAEA’s most recent Integrated Nuclear Infrastructure Review (INIR) in December 2024 highlighted Philippine progress in nine of 14 recommendations made since 2018, including the call for a comprehensive nuclear law, now achieved through RA 12305.