The Philippines has been elected to the Board of Governors of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), a development that Energy Secretary Sharon S. Garin said strengthens the country’s influence in shaping nuclear policy worldwide.
Garin said Wednesday the development “reinforces its role in shaping global policies on nuclear safety, security, and the peaceful use of atomic energy.”
The 35-member Board serves as the agency’s policymaking body, granting Manila the chance to participate directly in decisions involving safeguards, technical cooperation, and nuclear technology.
The energy chief emphasized that the position also offers practical advantages at home.
“The Philippines’ active participation in the IAEA Board demonstrates its commitment to science, innovation, and sustainable development,” Garin said.
She added that membership will facilitate greater access to expertise in nuclear medicine, food security, and agriculture—sectors that are becoming more critical as the country faces rising health demands and climate challenges.
The seat comes as the Department of Energy (DOE) steps up domestic preparations for nuclear power.
Shifting to atomic energy, safely
Earlier this month, the DOE launched a technical workshop on environmental requirements for nuclear projects, part of an effort to ensure that the shift to atomic energy is carried out responsibly and with safeguards in place.
The government has set ambitious nuclear energy targets under the Philippine Energy Plan 2023–2050: 1,200 megawatts of capacity by 2032, scaling up to 4,800 MW by 2040.
Nuclear energy is expected to provide stable electricity while helping reduce carbon emissions and align with climate commitments.
