The Department of Energy (DOE), through the Nuclear Energy Program–Inter-Agency Committee (NEP-IAC), has launched a comprehensive review of the Philippine’s nuclear laws, regulations, and policies. The goal of which is to establish a proper legal framework for the safe and secure use of nuclear energy technology.

The review, led by NEP-IAC Subcommittee 3, took place from August 12 to 15, 2025. It brought together representatives from different government agencies and stakeholders to identify legal gaps and necessary amendments. DOE Legal Services Director Myra Fiera F. Roa said the initiative aims to “clear all legal hurdles” before the company takes major steps in advancing its nuclear program.

One of the key developments preceding the review was the June 2025 ratification of the Philippine National Nuclear Energy Safety Act, which created the Philippine Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority (PhilATOM). The new entity will regulate nuclear energy infrastructure from the beginning processes of site selection all the way to the end with functional operations.

Energy Secretary Sharon S. Garin highlighted the country’s commitment to meeting International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) requirements. A follow-up IAEA mission in December 2024 confirmed that nine recommendations from its 2018 review had been addressed, with the other five still in progress. Among its advice was for the country to complete a legal analysis for its nuclear program.

The NEP-IAC, composed of 24 member-agencies, operates six subcommittees to address 19 nuclear infrastructure issues, ranging from safety and regulatory frameworks to fuel management and waste disposal. In line with the Philippine Energy Plan 2023-2050, the government is targeting 1,200 megawatts (MW) of nuclear capacity by 2032, doubling to 2,400 MW by 2035 and reaching 4,800 MW by 2050.

Follow Power Philippines on Facebook and LinkedIn or join our Viber community for more updates.