VIENNA, 24 November 2025 – The Philippines reiterated its unwavering commitment to non-proliferation and called for robust implementation of nuclear safeguards during the Board of Governors meeting of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) from 19 to 21 November 2025 at the Vienna International Centre. The Philippines was elected to the Board of Governors in September representing the Far East Group. The last time the Philippines was on the IAEA Board was 10 years ago.

Ambassador and Permanent Representative Evangelina A. Bernas expressed serious concern on the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea’s (DPRK) ongoing nuclear weapons and ballistic missile program as well as reports of continued nuclear activities in the country, including sustained construction at key nuclear sites and operation and possible expansion of uranium enrichment facilities at Yongbyon and Kangson. “Such developments, taken together, point to continued efforts to advance the DPRK’s nuclear program in clear violation of its international obligations,” said Ambassador Bernas.

The Philippines was concerned by the military attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities under IAEA safeguards in June which led to the withdrawal of inspectors and further interruptions of verification activities. It was also concerned by the IAEA Director General’s assessment that Iran remains non-compliant with its obligations under its NPT Safeguards Agreement. The Philippines welcomed the practical modalities agreed in Cairo on 09 September 2025. 

The Philippines encouraged Iran and the IAEA to make full use of the Cairo Agreement’s modalities and for Iran to move toward full compliance with its NPT Safeguards Agreement. “We continue to urge all concerned parties to exercise maximum restraint and to support, rather than impede, the implementation of monitoring and verification measures,” added Ambassador Bernas. 

As a member of the Board of Governors representing emerging nuclear states, the Philippines is committed to championing responsible, law-based nuclear governance and development-focused technical cooperation for the peaceful use of nuclear energy and technologies. 

The IAEA Board of Governors comprising 35 Member States is one of the two policy-making organs in the Agency and approves safeguards agreements and safety standards, makes recommendations on the Agency’s budget and programme, and appoints the Director General of the IAEA with the approval of the General Conference. END.