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The Department of Science and Technology Region 1 (DOST Region 1), in partnership with the DOST-Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (DOST-PNRI) and in coordination with the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Offices (PDRRMO) in Region 1 hosted the Specialized Seminar on Radiation Safety and Nuclear Emergency Preparedness and Response on May 20, 2025, at the DOST-La Union Provincial Science and Technology Center in Sevilla, City of San Fernando, La Union. The seminar gathered key stakeholders, including PDRRMOs, Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officers (LDRRMOs), Provincial and Municipal Health Office-La Union representative, and members of the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council 1 (RDRRMC 1), aiming to strengthen their capacities through essential knowledge on radiation hazards and emergency response strategies aligned with Republic Act 10121’s decentralized DRRM framework.
In her opening message, DOST Region 1 Director Teresita A. Tabaog, represented by Assistant Regional Director for Technical Operations Services Racquel M. Espiritu, underscored the significance of the initiative. “As we continue to strengthen our disaster preparedness programs, this initiative plays a vital role in supporting our national goals for a safe and secure nuclear energy program, while ensuring the safety and well-being of our communities.”
DOST-La Union Provincial Director Jonathan M. Viernes, represented by Engr. Bernadine P. Suniega, Supervising Science Research Specialist, welcomed the participants by highlighting the importance of their role: “Your presence shows your commitment to a safer and more prepared La Union. Sana ay maging makabuluhan, kapaki-pakinabang, at higit sa lahat, makapagbigay ng bagong kaalaman ang seminar na ito para sa ating lahat.”
Experts from the Radiological Impact Assessment Section (RIAS) of DOST-PNRI’s Nuclear Regulatory Division led the technical sessions. Ms. Jeana Lee P. Sablay, Section Head of RIAS, provided an overview of nuclear energy, safety and security arrangements, and the various applications of radiation technology in the Philippines, including its use in medicine, agriculture, industry, and research. She also highlighted that a single uranium pellet can power an average household for about six months and noted how radiation has increased agricultural yields by up to 30% through DOST-PNRI’s Carrageenan Plant Growth Promoter. Additionally, she discussed the network of radiation monitoring stations nationwide, which helps ensure public safety through real-time detection and assessment of radiological conditions.
Meanwhile, Mr. Christopher O. Mendoza, Senior Science Research Specialist, discussed the National Radiological Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan (RADPLAN), the official framework for managing radiation-related emergencies in the country. He detailed the types of radiological emergencies, the preparedness and response objectives, and the national coordination mechanisms under RADPLAN, which was tested during major international incidents such as the 2011 Fukushima Dai-ichi nuclear power plant accident.
In his closing remarks, Mr. Michael John C. Maquiling, Supervising Science Research Specialist and DRRM Focal of DOST Region 1, expressed gratitude to all participants who joined the seminar on-site, via Zoom, and through Facebook Live, emphasizing the importance of sustained collaboration, particularly in the potential adoption of disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM) technologies by local government units across the region. The seminar concluded as a meaningful step toward building a safer and more prepared Region 1, reinforcing DOST Region 1’s commitment to science-based governance and disaster resilience as the country progresses in its peaceful pursuit of nuclear energy. (Christian Dominic I. Casimiro)
