PNRI Nuclear Reactor Manager Ryan Olivares apprises DG Magwood on the Philippine Research Reactor - 1
DG Magwood hands a token to PNRI Deputy Director Dr. Vallerie Samson after the bilateral meeting between OECD-NEA and DOST-PNRI
OECD chief lauds PH strategic plan for nuclear energy
In a recent visit to the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PNRI), Director General William D. Magwood IV of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development Nuclear Energy Agency (OECD NEA) lauded the Philippines' expanding nuclear energy program.
DG Magwood’s visit purposed to hold a bilateral meeting between him and PNRI officials focusing on the Philippines' strategic plans for leveraging nuclear energy to drive economic growth and address national development priorities.
The meeting underscored the Philippines' proactive approach, particularly its progress following Executive Order No. 164 which states that the country “shall ensure the peaceful use of nuclear technology anchored on critical tenets of public safety, national security, energy self-sufficiency, and environmental sustainability.”
This executive order has laid the groundwork for crucial advancements, including the development of comprehensive nuclear laws, strategic human resource development, establishment of robust regulatory frameworks, enhanced radiation protection protocols, responsible radioactive waste management, and strengthened emergency preparedness capabilities.
Director General Magwood commended the Philippines' commitment to establishing a safe and sustainable nuclear energy program. He offered valuable insights into refining the regulatory landscape and developing effective communication strategies to engage diverse audiences on complex nuclear science topics.
The bilateral meeting highlighted the importance of international collaboration and knowledge sharing in the pursuit of nuclear energy program development. The PNRI officials and scientists engaged in fruitful discussions with Director General Magwood, exploring potential avenues for cooperation with the NEA and its member countries.
The NEA delegation also toured key PNRI facilities, including the Philippine Research Reactor-1 housing the Subcritical Assembly for Training, Education and Research, as well as the PHILGamma and and the E-beam irradiation facilities. DG Magwood was able to observe firsthand the Institute’s operational capabilities and interact face-to-face with PNRI’s researchers and facility operators.
The visit served as a powerful affirmation of the NEA's support for the Philippines' nuclear energy journey.
The OECD-NEA is an intergovernmental agency that facilitates cooperation among countries with advanced nuclear technology infrastructure, focusing on nuclear safety, technology, science, and law.
