In an effort to promote the inclusion of nuclear energy in the Philippine energy mix, the Department of Energy (DOE) is establishing a nuclear energy division.
In a report by Inquirer, the DOE announced the establishment of a division tasked with promoting, developing, and carrying out plans and activities to increase the country’s utilization of nuclear energy.
The office, headed by director Patrick Aquino, will be under the Energy Utilization Management Bureau and will report directly to Energy Undersecretary Sharon Garin.
Its duties include creating, formulating, and carrying out plans, strategies, structures, and initiatives meant to advance nuclear energy development and growth.
It would collaborate with the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute and other relevant government agencies to formulate a cohesive roadmap, policies, and proposed legislation.
In addition, it would be in charge of reviewing licenses, permits, and applications while closely adhering to current laws and guidelines.
A database inventory of operator applicants and their application statuses would also be updated and maintained by the division.
The energy department announced that the creation of this division was in compliance with Executive Order (EO) No. 116 and EO No. 164, both issued in 2022, as well as House Resolution No. 134 from the previous year. These directives mandated the agency to establish the Office of Nuclear Energy.
