Transfer of Authority
- The Philippine Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) is transferred from the National Science Development Board to the Office of the President.
- This shift aims to enhance the Commission's autonomy and closer oversight by the highest government office in light of increasing responsibilities.
Composition and Appointment of Commissioners
- The Commission shall be headed by a Commissioner and a Deputy Commissioner.
- Both appointees must have notable distinction in nuclear science and technology and possess adequate administrative experience.
- Both must pass necessary security clearances.
- Minimum annual salaries: Thirty-six thousand pesos for the Commissioner and thirty thousand pesos for the Deputy Commissioner.
Powers and Functions of the Commission
- Continues duties under Republic Act No. 2067 and Republic Act No. 5207, including research and development, promotion of nuclear science techniques, technical extension services, and education and training.
- Regulates atomic energy use to ensure public health and safety.
- Disseminates information on atomic energy and represents the Philippines in international nuclear forums.
- Additional functions include:
- Grant-making for nuclear research
- Collaborations with educational and research institutions
- Dissemination of scientific research findings
- Encouragement of uranium and special nuclear material exploration and mining
- Granting awards and honoraria to deserving scientific personnel
- Imposing reasonable fees for services, with discretion to waive or reduce fees for cooperating entities.
- Authority to issue necessary rules and regulations for these functions.
Employment Restrictions and Professional Practice
- Officials and employees, including scientific and technical staff, are prohibited from practicing their professions during their tenure except for specialized consulting or teaching.
Contracting and Procurement Powers
- The Commission may enter contracts for atomic energy research with approval from the Office of the President.
- Permitted to make partial or advance payments and provide its equipment and facilities as needed.
- These powers override Commonwealth Act No. 138 and related procurement laws to facilitate efficient atomic energy development.
Personnel and Merit System
- The Commission must establish a comprehensive merit system aligned with Civil Service rules.
- Recruitment, transfers, promotions, and dismissals governed by this system.
- All personnel subject to Civil Service laws, except regular scientific and technical staff, who are exempt from WAPCO rules.
Appropriations and Funding
- An initial appropriation of twelve million pesos allocated for the Commission's first operational year.
- For subsequent years, five million pesos annually from the Special Science Fund will augment general appropriations.
- Unused funds revert to the Atomic Energy Research Fund for continued nuclear research and operations.
Transfer of Resources
- All Commission assets, including personnel, records, equipment, properties, and facilities, are transferred to the Office of the President's jurisdiction.
Implementation and Repeal of Inconsistent Laws
- The decree took immediate effect on 1 July 1974.
- All laws, executive orders, and regulations inconsistent with this decree are repealed or amended accordingly.