DOE finalizes RADPLAN for nuclear emergencies

The Department of Energy (DOE) announced on Tuesday that it has finalized and strengthened the National Nuclear and Radiological Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan (RADPLAN), enhancing the country's preparedness measures for potential nuclear emergencies.

Following two writeshops involving 70 participants from 23 member agencies, alongside a review by the Department of Science and Technology - Philippine Nuclear Research Institute Technical Working Group, the RADPLAN establishes clear protocols and procedures to protect public health and the environment.

The plan also aims to enhance inter-agency coordination and ensure alignment with international safety standards, addressing potential incidents from various sources including medical diagnostics and industrial quality control.

DOE Director Nenito Jariel Jr. emphasized that the RADPLAN enhances emergency response readiness against both internal and external hazards.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council will evaluate RADPLAN to ensure its alignment with national policies.

The Nuclear Energy Program Inter-Agency Committee (NEP-IAC) is developing a roadmap to meet 19 International Atomic Energy Agency infrastructure requirements and reviewing compliance with nuclear safety, security, and safeguards.