
Voting 200-7, with two abstentions, the House of Representatives under the leadership of Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez approved on third and final reading House Bill (HB) 9293, which seeks to establish the Philippine Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority (PhilATOM).
The bill provides for a comprehensive legal framework for the safe, secure and the peaceful utilization of nuclear energy in the Philippines. Under the measure, the PhilATOM would have the sole and exclusive jurisdiction to exercise regulatory control over nuclear energy and radiation sources.
Among its key functions would be: 1) assist the government in the development of national policies and measures for the control of regulated activities and facilities; 2) review and assess application for authorizations; 3) verify compliance of facilities and activities through inspections and assessment; 4) install a radiation monitoring center; and 5) establish emergency response and security support centers.
The PhilATOM would be mandated to promote transparency in the exercise of its functions and responsibilities.
Other measures that hurdled third and final reading are HB 9153 or the proposed “Contraband Detection and Control Act” and HB 9320 that would establish a reform in the regulation of collective bargaining agreement.
The House also approved on third and final reading several local measures strengthening state universities and colleges, as well as developing the country’s tourism sector.
Deputy Speakers Antonio “Tonypet” Albano and Yasser Alonto Balindong presided over Wednesday’s plenary session.