Senator Win Gatchalian said a robust regulatory framework for nuclear energy is essential to ensure its safety and sustainability and address any concerns relating to its potential use in the country.

A comprehensive regulatory framework is important given the country’s growing energy demand, a portion of which could be met by nuclear energy,” Gatchalian stated, following the Senate’s approval on third and final reading of a proposed measure to create the Philippine Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority.

As proposed, the agency will have regulatory control over all sources of ionizing radiation, including nuclear and radioactive materials and radiation devices. Gatchalian, vice-chair of the Senate Committee on Energy, is one of the authors of the measure.

The proposed measure specifies penalties for unauthorized handling or misuse of nuclear materials and prioritizes public health, safety, and environmental protection as well as compliance with international standards to enhance public confidence.

Sa pamamagitan ng pagtatatag ng isang komprehensibong regulatory framework para sa nuclear technology, matitiyak natin na ang mga agam-agam tungkol sa paggamit  nito ay matutugunan at lalakas ang kumpiyansa at tiwala ng publiko,” Gatchalian added.