OECD Nuclear Energy Agency’s Visit to the Philippines: Exploring Potential Cooperation in Nuclear Energy

Director General William Magwood (left) poses for an official photo with DFA OUMAIER’s APEC National Secretariat Director General Marcos Angelo Punsalang (right). (Photo courtesy: DFA OPD Jeffrey Mendoza)

MANILA 04 March 2025 – The official visit of the Organisation of Economic Co-operation and Development Nuclear Energy Agency (OECD-NEA) Director General William D. Magwood IV to the Philippines, from February 24 to 26, kicked off with a call at the Department of Foreign Affairs. He was welcomed by APEC National Secretariat Director General Marcos Angelo A.S. Punsalang of the DFA Office of the Undersecretary for Multilateral Affairs and International Economic Relations and was accompanied by Dr. Mary Jane Mallari, a Filipino Junior Specialist at the OECD-NEA. 

The discussions covered the OECD-NEA’s flagship activities, the Philippines' nuclear energy position including policy, interests, challenges, and international engagements. The meeting also featured an open exchange on potential collaboration and future steps. 

Director General Punsalang emphasized the strong partnership between the Philippines and the OECD, citing significant developments, recent visits by OECD officials, and successful joint projects. He highlighted Philippine legal frameworks, compliance with international nuclear agreements, and the promotion of women and youth in the nuclear sector. In particular, he underscored the country’s commitment to the peaceful uses of nuclear energy and its advocacy for non-discriminatory access to nuclear science and technology for developing countries. 

Director General Magwood stressed the need for international support for the country's nuclear energy goals. He detailed NEA's efforts in tackling nuclear energy challenges, emerging technological solutions, and international coordination for nuclear safety, recommending that the Philippines further look into these areas. 

Both sides exchanged views on critical concerns such as costs, public reservations, and radioactive waste disposal. They explored collaboration opportunities, particularly in workforce development, and concluded by affirming the need for alternative energy sources amid global and environmental problems.

During his three-day mission, Director General Magwood had strategic discussions with high-level Philippine officials on potential cooperation and met with various nuclear stakeholders from industry, research, and academia to understand their capacities and challenges in nuclear development.

In addition to the DFA, he called on the Department of Energy, Department of Science and Technology and the Department of Education. He engaged with the management, faculty and students of the University of the Philippines-Diliman and the Philippine Science High School. He also toured the facilities of the St. Luke’s Medical Center, Philippine General Hospital, and Philippine Nuclear Research Institute. 

This visit provided the Philippines with insights into innovative nuclear power plant strategies, modular nuclear plant technologies, and international collaboration. It marked the first interface between the Philippines and the OECD-NEA, underscoring the importance of this partnership for advancing energy security, innovation, and environmental responsibility. END

From left to right: Deputy Director General Laccay, Director General Magwood, Director General Punsalang, Dr. Mallari and Ms. Marie Therese T. Zerrudo, DFA’s student intern. (Photo courtesy: DFA OPD Jeffrey Mendoza)

From left foreground: Dr. Mallari, Director General Magwood; and across are Director General Punsalang and Deputy Director-General Querobine Deapera Laccay. (Photo courtesy: DFA OPD Jeffrey Mendoza)