Vienna, Austria-- DOST Secretary Fortunato T. de la Peña leads the Philippine delegation to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Ministerial Conference on Nuclear Security, together with other 136 member states, Nov. 28-30.

Themed “Addressing Current and Emerging Development Challenges,” the conference underscored the contribution of nuclear science and technology to meeting global socio-economic needs. Promoting wider nuclear technology applications for national development priorities and the realization of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development was among the main commitments agreed upon.

Sec. de la Peña delivered the Philippine statement at the plenary, reinstating the country’s support to the IAEA and commending its assistance to developing member states through the Technical Cooperation Program. The Philippine-IAEA partnership continuously develops our human resources by training Filipino scientists and experts on recent nuclear tech applications.

At the sidelines of the event, DOST staged an exhibit to showcase the country’s achievements in the application of nuclear technology. It featured Filipino innovation, Carrageenan Plant Food Supplement, irradiated seaweeds which can boost the yield of crops and increase its typhoon resistance.

Nuclear science and technology has a great potential to flourish in the country, especially with its multiple applications in sectors such as health, agriculture, industry, and climate change. Particularly, DOST is keen on pursuing and strengthening initiatives on health and nuclear medicine with emphasis on diagnosis and treatment of diseases. This is carried out by the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute in cooperation with other agencies.


Secretary De La Peña delivered the Philippine Statement at the Ministerial Segment of the Conference.


Secretary De La Peña with IAEA Deputy Director General Yukiya Amano