MANILA, Philippines (Aug 2026) – Southeast Asia is taking a major step to strengthen regional radiation security as the Philippines hosts top international watchdogs and regulatory leaders in Manila.
The country is leading the 13th Annual Meeting of the ASEAN Network of Regulatory Bodies on Atomic Energy (ASEANTOM) from August 11 to 13, 2026. As chair and host, local authorities are heading plenary sessions focused on radiation safety, nuclear safeguards, and emergency preparedness across the region.
What the meeting covers
Delegates from across Southeast Asia are exchanging best practices on regulatory oversight, environmental radiation monitoring, and preventing the illegal trafficking of radioactive materials.
The Philippine delegation is spearheaded by the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (DOST-PNRI) through its Nuclear Regulatory Division. This unit is set to transition into PhilATOM, a new independent national body tasked with regulating safe, secure, and peaceful nuclear applications nationwide.
Expanding global partnerships
This year’s hybrid gathering features expanded sessions with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and international technical partners. These talks aim to align regional safety standards with global protocols while building regulatory capacity among member states.
The Philippines will also share key outcomes from the ASEAN Nuclear Emergency Notification and Communications Exercise (AR/NeX) 2026, the network’s flagship project for the year.
Passing the torch
The three-day event wraps up on August 13 with the formal handover of the ASEANTOM chairship from the Philippines to Singapore, ensuring continuous regional collaboration for peaceful nuclear technology.
