DOE Launches Nuclear 101 Training Series for Stakeholders
The Department of Energy (DOE) has launched its Nuclear 101 Training Series to educate key stakeholders, especially local media practitioners, about the fundamentals of nuclear energy as a long-term alternative power source. This initiative aims to raise awareness and understanding of nuclear power’s potential role in the Philippines’ energy future.
Through the DOE’s Nuclear Energy Program Inter-Agency Committee (NEP-IAC), the Nuclear Energy Program (NEP) acts as the Philippine government’s strategic roadmap to explore nuclear power. It addresses the growing energy demand while aiming to reduce dependence on fossil fuels. The DOE’s efforts emphasize transparency and stakeholder participation in this important energy transition.
Engaging Stakeholders for Nuclear Energy
DOE Nuclear Energy Division OIC Chief Shiela dela Cruz highlighted the importance of involving stakeholders during the training event. She said, “the need to inform, involve and engage with stakeholders whose concerns and feedback are crucial in the country’s bid to embark on NEP, guided by the highest standards of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).” This reflects the commitment to uphold safety and international best practices as the country explores nuclear options.
The training sessions took place from June 23 to 26 in Makati City. Media practitioners from Palawan and Masbate participated in workshops led by experts from the National Power Corporation (NPC), the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs), and the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI). These sessions aimed to provide solid knowledge on nuclear energy basics and the program’s safety protocols.
Training Focus: Safety, Site Selection, and History
The course covered core nuclear energy principles, site selection criteria, and stringent safety protocols under the NEP framework. Experts also detailed the history of nuclear energy development in the Philippines and the regulatory precautions designed to foster informed public discussion. This approach helps build a well-informed community ready to engage in the nuclear energy conversation.
Participants also visited the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant to gain firsthand experience of its infrastructure and operations. This site tour offered practical insights, further enriching the trainees’ understanding of the nuclear energy landscape in the country.
Building Nuclear Readiness Through Collaboration
The training was organized by Subcommittee 4 of the NEP-IAC. Its main tasks align with the International Atomic Energy Agency’s three pillars: stakeholder involvement, human resource development, and industrial participation. These pillars are essential components that determine a country’s nuclear readiness and capacity to safely adopt nuclear energy.
This educational program follows the recent ratification by Congress of the Bicameral Conference Committee Report on Senate Bill No. 2899 and House Bill No. 9293. Known as the “Philippine National Nuclear Energy Safety Act,” this legislation establishes the Philippine Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority or PhilATOM. The creation of this agency marks a key milestone in the country’s nuclear energy development.
Local leaders noted that this initiative reflects a significant step toward sustainable energy and energy security. They emphasized the importance of continuous public education and engagement as the country moves forward with its nuclear energy plans.
For more news and updates on nuclear energy training series, visit Filipinokami.com.