The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) confirms the launch of the Long March 8A rocket from the People’s Republic of China. Expected debris from the rocket launch was projected to have fallen within the identified drop zones: approximately 162 NM away from El Nido, Palawan, 185 NM away from Puerto Princesa, Palawan, and 101 NM away from Patag Island (DZ 1); and 32 NM away from Hadji Muhtamad, Basilan, 44 NM away from Pangutaran Island, Sulu, and 47 NM away from Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park (DZ 2). The first drop zone is within the Philippine Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) while the second drop zone is within Philippine archipelagic waters. 

The Long March 8A rocket was launched from the Hainan International Commercial Launch Center in Wenchang, Hainan at around 3:49 AM PhST on 13 March 2026. 

Details of the rocket drop zone were disclosed through a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) warning of an “aerospace flight activity.” PhilSA disseminated a pre-launch report to relevant government agencies and authorities prior to the launch. 

Estimated drop zones of the Long March 8A launch on 13 March 2026

Unburned debris from rockets, such as the booster and fairing, are designed to be discarded as the rocket enters outer space. While not projected to fall on land features or inhabited areas, falling debris poses danger and potential risk to ships, aircraft, fishing boats, and other vessels that will pass through the drop zone. There is also a possibility for the debris to float around the area and wash toward nearby coasts. Additionally, the possibility of an uncontrolled re-entry to the atmosphere of the rocket’s upper stages returning from outer space cannot be ruled out at this time. 

PhilSA reiterates its advice for the public to inform local authorities if suspected debris is sighted. PhilSA also cautions against retrieving or coming in close contact with these materials that may contain remnants of toxic substances such as rocket fuel. 

The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA), together with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), Cagayan Economic Zone Authority (CEZA), Ascend International Gateway, Inc., and Republic of Korea’s (ROK) Perigee Aerospace, Inc. signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to collaborate on a framework for rocket development training and experimental rocket launches in the Philippines. These initiatives will demonstrate the viability of the establishment and operation of a Philippine spaceport, with the goal of positioning the country as a gateway to space in the region. 

With the Pacific Ocean to its east and its proximity to the equator, the Philippines is well positioned to ensure safe and secure rocket launch and recovery operations over open waters, helping to reduce costs, improve launch efficiency, and create opportunities for research and commercial space activities. 

The MOU was signed by PhilSA Ad Interim Director General Gay Jane P. Perez, DICT Secretary Henry R. Aguda, CEZA Administrator and CEO Secretary Katrina Ponce Enrile, Perigee Aerospace CEO Dong Yoon Shin, and Ascend International Gateway President Ramon C. Garcia Jr. during the Philippines–Korea Business Forum held on 04 March 2026 at Conrad Manila. The MOU signing ceremony was witnessed by Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ma. Cristina A. Roque and Republic of Korea Minister of Trade, Industry and Resources (MOTIR) Kim Jung–kwan, and coincided with the State Visit of ROK President Lee Jae Myung to the Philippines. 

The agreement builds on the rocket technology know-how transfer and training program undertaken by PhilSA engineers in the Republic of Korea from October to November 2025, in collaboration with Perigee Aerospace. The program equipped the engineers with foundational and applied knowledge in launch vehicle systems through lectures and hands-on experience in rocket assembly and testing. These initiatives lay the groundwork for future activities, including possible localized assembly, testing, and launch operations in the Philippines. 

During his message at the Philippines–Korea Business Forum, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. underscored that the business agreements signed across various industries, including shipbuilding, nuclear energy, aerospace, critical minerals supply chains, retail, and health and wellness, “demonstrate our enthusiasm for our private sector to deepen our strong economic relations.” 

“All of these will ripple into significant partnerships that will generate projects, investments, and of course, livelihood,” the President said. 

Through training, international collaboration, and private sector participation, PhilSA and its partners continue to strengthen the Philippines’ capabilities in space research, engineering, and rocket and satellite development. With its strategic location, expanding technical workforce, and commitment to cooperative development, the Philippines is well positioned to become a strategic, safe, and sustainable gateway to space for the region and the world. The MOU and its collaboration for rocket development and experimental launches are pivotal steps towards establishing a Philippine spaceport and advancing the countries’ space industry. 

About PhilSA 

The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) is the central government agency of the Philippines that plans, develops, and promotes the national space program in line with the Philippine Space Policy. Created in August 2019 under Republic Act No. 11363, or the Philippine Space Act, PhilSA is an attached agency of the Office of the President of the Philippines for purposes of policy and program coordination and to ensure alignment in national policies and priorities. 

About Perigee Aerospace 

Perigee Aerospace, Inc. is an end-to-end space mobility company, developing high-performance launch vehicles, propulsion systems and spacecraft components. Perigee Aerospace provides sustainable access to Earth orbit and beyond; making space accessible, reliable, and efficient. Backed by expertise in liquid propulsion technologies, Perigee Aerospace aims to open innovative pathways for the future of space transportation. 

About Ascend International Gateway, Inc. 

Ascend International Gateway, Inc. is a Philippine corporation engaged in the business of airport operations and management, and aviation industry economic zones and cluster development, that seeks to serve as a strategic link between aerospace and space industries through its global network of industry partners and the integration of advanced artificial intelligence (AI) products and services. 

The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) invited students to become part of the country’s next generation of space professionals through a scholarships roadshow held on 19–20 February 2026 at the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) in Laguna.  

The two-day event introduced participants to educational opportunities such as the Advanced Degrees for Accelerating Strategic Space R&D and Applications (AD ASTRA) Scholarships Program and the Fulbright-PhilSA Program Award in Space Science and Technology Applications (SSTA).  

The roadshow featured an information session and career talk that provided a comprehensive overview of the scholarship programs, application process, and scholarship benefits. UPLB complemented the activity by presenting its available graduate programs relevant to SSTA, highlighting pathways for students interested in pursuing advanced studies in space-related fields.  

Ms. Angeline Macasinag, a PhilSA AD ASTRA scholar-graduate, shared her #KwentongPhilSAScholar as a master’s student in Biology of Extreme Environments at the Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II in Naples, Italy. Her research explored the response of pigment-producing bacteria under simulated Mars conditions and implications for habitability. Beyond her thesis work, she also highlighted the opportunities made possible through the AD ASTRA Scholarships Program, including participation in international conferences and access to research dissemination grants. 

The PhilSA AD ASTRA Scholarships Program provides financial support to outstanding Filipinos who have completed their Bachelor’s degree and wish to pursue advanced studies in SSTA at local or foreign institutions. Since its launch in 2021, the program has empowered Filipinos in undertaking postgraduate studies in fields aligned with national space development. To date, 12 scholars have completed their degrees and are now contributing to the advancement of SSTA in the Philippines. 

For more information about PhilSA AD ASTRA Scholarships, visit this link.   

Dr. Gay Jane P. Perez took her oath of office as Ad Interim Director General of the Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA), administered by Executive Secretary Ralph G. Recto at Malacañang Palace. The Director General of PhilSA holds the rank of a Cabinet Secretary and serves as the Presidential Adviser on Space Matters. 

Dr. Perez will further advance the Philippines’ Yamang Kalawakan, underscoring the growing role of space science and technology as indispensable tools for informed decision-making and effective governance. Through these capabilities, the country strengthens its ability to address climate change and disaster risks, enhance food security, protect the environment, and safeguard the maritime domain. 

PhilSA will also continue to deepen collaboration with its existing and new partners, recognizing that strong domestic and international cooperation remains essential to building a robust and globally competitive space ecosystem. 

Dr. Perez has been with PhilSA since 2021. She assumed the role of Officer-in-Charge in September 2025, bringing with her extensive experience in space science, research and development, and institutional leadership. 

Prior to PhilSA, Dr. Perez led the science team behind the development of the Philippines’ first microsatellites, Diwata-1 and Diwata-2, laying the groundwork for subsequent space technology initiatives, including the ongoing development of the Multispectral Unit for Land Assessment (MULA) satellite. She led satellite remote sensing research on drought monitoring and forecasting, forest change detection, climate change and variability, among others.  

She earned her doctorate in Physics from the University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman and completed her postdoctoral research at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, specializing in remote sensing and satellite data applications. 

About PhilSA 

The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) is the central government agency of the Philippines that plans, develops, and promotes the national space program in line with the Philippine Space Policy. Created in August 2019 under Republic Act No. 11363, or the Philippine Space Act, PhilSA is an attached agency of the Office of the President of the Philippines for purposes of policy and program coordination and to ensure alignment in national policies and priorities. 

The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) formalized strategic partnerships with the Palawan Council for Sustainable Development (PCSD) and the Tubbataha Management Office (TMO) to enhance the use of Space Science, Technology, and Applications (SSTA) in creating maps to advance environmental protection, sustainable development, and evidence-based policymaking in Palawan. 

The agreements were signed on 13 February 2026 in Puerto Princesa City through separate five-year Memoranda of Agreement (MOA) at the PCSD Building with PCSD Executive Director Atty. Teodoro Matta, TMO Protected Area Superintendent Angelique Songco, and PhilSA Director General Gay Jane P. Perez, Ph.D., represented by Space Information Infrastructure Bureau (SIIB) Director Ariel C. Blanco, Ph.D. 

Under the MOA with PCSD, PhilSA will generate land use, land cover (LULC) and benthic (marine habitat) maps free of charge, which are useful in monitoring environmental health and assessing damage when necessary. On its part, PCSD will help validate the maps generated by PhilSA using data on the ground. 

The partnership builds upon the successful conduct of the PhilSA Integrated Network for Space-Enabled Actions (PINAS) Workshop in Palawan in 2022, which laid the groundwork for strengthened cooperation in the region. Launched in October 2022, PINAS is an active network of Local Government Units (LGUs), institutions, and individuals working toward sustainability using space data. Workshops have been held in Iloilo City, Palawan, Ilocos Region, Aklan, Mindoro, Davao, Zamboanga, Cebu, Bataan, Bulacan, and Bukidnon. Interested LGUs and organizations may join the PINAS Network here.  

In a separate MOA, PhilSA and the Tubbataha Management Office formalized their collaboration to conduct benthic/marine habitat and bathymetry mapping to help in the science-based management in the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a cradle for marine biodiversity. 

The agreements include capacity-building efforts to enable PCSD and TMO personnel to effectively utilize space-borne data for environmental habitat monitoring and management beyond the duration of the partnership. 

Parallel to the MOA signing, PhilSA also conducted PINAS Symposiums at Western Philippines University (WPU) and Palawan State University (PSU), and field surveys in Balabac, Palawan to collect ground-truth or validation data for mapping initiatives. Activities included drone image acquisition for high-resolution mapping of benthic areas, crops, and land cover; and underwater video and echosounder tows. The data gathered will create more accurate seagrass, coral, forest, and crop maps, to support agriculture and sustainable development planning. 

Through these partnerships, PhilSA continues to advance the integration of space-enabled solutions in environmental conservation efforts, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable development and science-based governance in the Philippines. 

Courtesy visit to the Provincial Government of Palawan to explore additional collaboration opportunities on the utilization of space data

During PINAS Symposium in Western Philippines University (WPU) on 12 February 2026 where applications of satellite data to environmental management, agriculture, disaster resilience, and evidence-based policymaking were discussed.

About PhilSA 

The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) is the central government agency of the Philippines that plans, develops, and promotes the national space program in line with the Philippine Space Policy. Created in August 2019 under Republic Act No. 11363, or the Philippine Space Act, PhilSA is an attached agency of the Office of the President of the Philippines for purposes of policy and program coordination and to ensure alignment in national policies and priorities. 

The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA), in partnership with Geo-Informatics Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA) and United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA), will host the ASEAN Space Situational Awareness and Space Traffic Management Seminar-Workshop from 12 to 13 March 2026 at The Peninsula Manila. 

The ever-increasing state of debris in space requires an accurate understanding of debris orbiting the earth, space environment and threats that could result in damage to assets, disruption of critical services and risks to human life both in space and on ground.  This understanding of space is described as Space Situational Awareness (SSA), involving the knowledge, characterization, and practice of tracking objects and their operational environment. 

Recognizing that the challenges of SSA exceed the capacity of any single nation, ASEAN Member States have moved toward collective action. During its 32nd meeting, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations – Subcommittee on Space Technologies and Applications (SCOSA) approved the “ASEAN Space Situational Awareness and Space Traffic Management” project, to be co-implemented by the Philippines and Thailand. 

The project is designed to strengthen regional capabilities through three strategic pillars: 1) capacity building and awareness-raising across sectors, 2) collaborative research and development in areas such as debris tracking and space weather monitoring, and 3) the establishment of regular high-level dialogue and coordination among ASEAN Member States (AMS). 

The upcoming seminar-workshop will serve as one of the platforms for operationalizing these pillars. By bringing together policymakers, technical experts, and international partners, the event aims to foster a coordinated ASEAN response to ensure the long-term sustainability and safety of outer space. 

The SSA/STM Seminar-Workshop is part of the Philippine Chairship of ASEAN in 2026, representing the Philippines’ commitment to playing an active and responsible role in the global effort to keep space secure, sustainable, and accessible for present and future generations. 

Speakers

Gay Jane P. Perez, Ph.D. 
Ad Interim Director General 
Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA)

Aarti Holla-Maini 
Director 
United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA)

Kao Kim Hourn, Ph.D.
Secretary General
Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)

Pakorn Apaphant, Ph.D.
Executive Director
Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA)

Erick Lansard
Professor
Nanyang Technology University

Sittiporn Channumsin, Ph.D.
Assistant Director, Space Technology Development Office
Director, Space Technology Research Center
Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development (GISTDA)

Yonekura Hideaki
Deputy Director
National Space Policy Secretariat
Cabinet Office of Japan

Rosanna Margarita Hoffmann
Legal and Programme Officer for Space Law
United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA)
Team Leader for SSA/STM

Chee Shung Kuan
Principal Technologist for Orbital Operations
MEASAT

Vishal Ray
Senior Astrodynamics Engineer
Kayhan Space

–

Workshop Topics

Session 1: Overview of the Regional SSA/STM Landscape 

Session 2: Space Situational Awareness: Observation, Tracking, and Data Management 

Session 3: Space Traffic Management: Operational Management, Mitigation, and Safety 

Session 4: Space Weather 

Session 5: SSA/STM Policy 

Session 6: Tabletop Exercise 

–

For inquiries and concerns about the seminar-workshop, contact: sicd@philsa.gov.ph

The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA participated in the 63rd Session of the Scientific and Technical Subcommittee (STSC) of the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (UN COPUOS) held in Vienna International Centre, Vienna, Austria, from 02 to 13 February 2026.

PhilSA Space Technology Missions and Systems Bureau Director Dr. Marc Caesar R. Talampas and PhilSA Space International Cooperation Division Chief Mr. Kritzman G. Caballero delivered national statements during the STSC UN COPUOS session.

63rd Session of the Scientific and Technical Subcommittee of the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space

Philippine National Statement

Agenda Item No. 4 “General Exchange of Views and Introduction of Reports Submitted on National Activities”

delivered by

MARC CAESAR R. TALAMPAS, Ph.D.
Director IV
Space Technology Missions and Systems Bureau

Thank you, Mr. Chair.

The Philippine delegation extends our warm congratulations to Thailand, led by Dr. Pakorn Apaphant, on assuming the Chairship of the 63^rd Session of the Scientific and Technical Subcommittee (STSC). We also wish to express our appreciation to the UNOOSA Secretariat, led by Director Aarti Holla-Maini, for its excellent preparations for this year’s session.

Over the past year, the Philippines continued to advance meaningful dialogue on ensuring that outer space remains a domain of innovation, cooperation, and collaboration. We were honored to have hosted the 31^st Session of the Asia-Pacific Regional Space Agency Forum (or APRSAF-31) in partnership with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) and the 7^th International Space Forum in partnership with the International Astronautical Federation (IAF) and the Italian Space Agency (ASI). We sincerely thank our partners for their trust and contributions that will lead toward strengthening global cooperation and the promotion of the peaceful and sustainable use of outer space.

We are pleased to share that the Philippines signed the Artemis Accords in October 2025. We view this milestone as a clear affirmation of our commitment to the peaceful, transparent, and responsible exploration and use of outer space, including activities on the Moon, Mars, and beyond. The signing underscores the Philippines’ resolve to remain an active stakeholder in global space governance and in upholding international law, as emerging technologies and private sector activities increasingly test the boundaries of existing legal frameworks.

We are further pleased to report that the Philippines has signed the Declaration of Interest of the Space4Ocean Alliance on the sidelines of the 76th International Astronautical Congress (IAC). As an archipelagic nation, we see strong alignment between the Alliance’s objectives and our national priorities in ocean stewardship.

Mr. Chair,

This year, the Philippines is scheduled to launch the Multispectral Unit for Land Assessment (MULA) satellite. Designed primarily for agricultural monitoring, MULA will support national food security and resilience objectives. This launch reflects the Philippines’ commitment to strengthening our space ecosystem and developing a sustainable and competitive space industry. To this end, we are pleased to announce that we have become a member of the Committee on Earth Observation Satellites, and we are committed to actively participate in its work.

The Philippines continues to experience the impacts of space debris associated rocket launches. Recently, rocket debris was discarded within Philippine archipelagic waters, raising important considerations related to jurisdiction, safety, economic impact, and environmental protection.

We reiterate our readiness for constructive dialogue to address the escalating challenge of debris. We firmly uphold that activities in space must be conducted with due regard to the corresponding interests of all States, and that progress in space must never come at the expense of harm to life and the environment on Earth.

Mr. Chair,

As ASEAN Chair, the Philippines is pleased to highlight regional initiatives that strengthen cooperation in space activities. We will convene the ASEAN Space Situational Awareness and Space Traffic Management Seminar-Workshop on 12–13 March 2026, providing a platform for dialogue and reinforcing ongoing and future efforts on SSA and STM. We thank UNOOSA for their valuable support and partnership in the activity.

We are working towards an ASEAN Declaration on Space Cooperation for adoption during our ASEAN Chairship. This is meant to enhance existing mechanisms and advance the region’s capabilities in space. We recognize the vital role of space technology in achieving an inclusive and sustainable regional development, and the need for ASEAN to fully leverage emerging opportunities in space cooperation.

In closing, the Philippines reaffirms our unwavering commitment to the shared aspiration of ensuring that outer space remains a peaceful, safe, and sustainable domain for the benefit of all humankind. We reiterate our steadfast adherence to the principles and obligations enshrined in the UN Charter, and we encourage all Member States to continue embracing multilateralism as an indispensable pillar in advancing our common interests in outer space. In this spirit, we call upon all Members and Observers to fully harness the opportunities provided by this Subcommittee for open, constructive dialogue and to strengthen cooperation.

We further underscore the importance of ensuring that developing states are meaningfully included in these discussions—empowered not only to participate, but to derive substantial and equitable benefits from emerging developments in the global space arena. Together, let us continue building a space environment that is inclusive, responsible, and conducive to long-term sustainability for present and future generations.

Thank you, Mr. Chair.

63rd Session of the Scientific and Technical Subcommittee of the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space

Philippine National Statement

Agenda Item No. 7 “Space-system-based disaster management support”

delivered by:

KRITZMAN G. CABALLERO
Chief for Space International Cooperation
Space Policy and International Cooperation Bureau

Mr. Chair,

The Philippines recognizes the critical role of disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM), and the significant contribution of space-system-based applications in supporting these mechanisms. Situated in the Pacific Ring of Fire and the Typhoon Belt, we are one of the most disaster-prone countries in the world; thus, underscoring our strong interest in strengthening and leveraging the opportunities offered by space science and technology applications in enhancing disaster preparedness and response.

We remain an active participant in Sentinel Asia, as one of its Data Provider Nodes. We have supported regional disaster response by generating and sharing satellite data, which supports disaster impact assessment, planning, and response. We are also thankful for the resources made available through the International Charter Space and Major Disasters that have enabled our timely and effective response during disaster incidents.

Our DRRM activities also encompass our obligation to uphold climate resilience in the country, especially as the National Focal Point for Space for Climate Observatory (SCO). The country has three existing projects under the SCO—the Drought Early Warning in the Philippines, the Nationwide Operational Assessment of Hazards, and, most recently, the CopPhil-BLUEHAB, which pilots a remote sensing service to map, classify, and monitor benthic habitats such as coral reefs and seagrass beds using Copernicus data. This service reinforces the Philippines’ ability to sustainably monitor and protect its marine environment.

The use of satellite data is essential in saving lives and livelihoods, especially last year, when the Philippines was ravaged by at least twenty typhoons and experienced sequential earthquakes. We used space data for drought monitoring, assessment of coastal environment conditions, mapping of flood-prone areas, and identification of fault lines. These experiences strongly motivate our efforts to collaborate with local and international partners and maximize such data and technologies for DRRM.

Mr. Chair,

International cooperation remains a core component of our mandate and supports national development objectives. We continue to strengthen collaboration with our regional partners. For example, our partnership with the European Union through the Copernicus Programme (CopPhil) further enhances our DRRM capacity through the provided access to Copernicus satellite data and Earth observation services.

We also note the successful launch of SCOPE Digital in 2025, in partnership with Indonesia, Thailand, and the European Union. This initiative expands the CopPhil system and strengthens Earth observation-based solutions for disaster resilience, natural resource management, and sustainable development across Southeast Asia.

We encourage the continued development and strengthening of inclusive frameworks and programs that enable developing countries to participate meaningfully, share their experiences, and have their specific needs reflected. The Philippines continues to support UN‑SPIDER initiatives, particularly as a sponsor of  the Digital Twin for Flood Resilience and the Regional Technical Advisory Mission on Disaster Management and Response, with particular focus on Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

Climate change and disasters are not isolated phenomena; they amplify each other’s impacts, creating cascading risks that disproportionately affect vulnerable communities. It is therefore imperative for States to recognize the accelerating climate shifts and to strengthen the peaceful use of space systems to support national, regional, and global disaster management efforts.

The Philippines remains steadfast in supporting and strengthening international and regional mechanisms that harness space-based capabilities for efficient, effective, and people-centered disaster risk reduction and management. We stand with our partners (or like-minded States) in advancing the peaceful, sustainable, and cooperative use of outer space through improved access to satellite data, responsible practices, and sustained capacity-building initiatives.

Thank you, Mr. Chair.

63rd Session of the Scientific and Technical Subcommittee of the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space

Philippine National Statement

Agenda Item No. 11 – Long-Term Sustainability of Outer Space Activities

delivered by

KRITZMAN G. CABALLERO
Chief for Space International Cooperation
Space Policy and International Cooperation Bureau

Mr. Chair,

The Philippines reiterates its adherence and strong commitment to the United Nations’ Twenty-One (21) Guidelines for the Long-Term Sustainability (LTS) of Outer Space Activities and Action 56 of the Pact for the Future, which underscores the need to strengthen existing frameworks and establish new mechanisms addressing space traffic, space debris, and space resources.

We welcome the progress achieved last year through the discussions of the Working Group on the Long-Term Sustainability of Outer Space Activities (WG-LTS), in particular:

1. We fully support the development of a new multi-year workplan of the WG-LTS, as well as the identified thematic areas. We especially value the inclusion of space situational awareness and space debris as priority themes.
2. We welcome the establishment of the LTS open-source information repository, which reflects the shared commitment of Committee Members to advancing the long-term sustainability of outer space. We recognize the usefulness of this information repository in enhancing national space capabilities in a manner that is robust and sustainable. We look forward to sharing our insights and experiences in this regard.
3. On the Expert Group on Space Situational Awareness (SSA), introduced by the United Arab Emirates (UAE), we express our interest in participating and contributing to the discussions. We note that this initiative is particularly timely, given the increasing amount of space debris in low earth orbit (LEO).

We also welcome the opportunity to contribute national perspectives on SSA to the anticipated conference room paper to be issued during this Session. The Philippines looks forward to in-depth discussions on SSA and to exploring ways in which we can contribute meaningfully to the work of the Expert Group and to the future efforts under the LTS Framework.

Mr. Chair,

As the Philippines advances a robust and future‑ready space sector, we are finalizing the Philippine Space Industry Development Plan 2026–2035—a foundational framework aimed at strengthening national participation in the global space economy. In alignment with the LTS Guidelines, our domestic policies seek to support Filipino space enterprises while upholding international norms and contributing constructively to the long‑term sustainability of outer space activities.

At the regional level, the Philippines was honored to co-host the ASEAN Regional Forum Workshop on Peace and Security in Outer Space, together with Australia and Singapore, from 26–28 November 2025 in Manila. The workshop advanced regional dialogue on space sustainability, space debris, and related security concerns—reinforcing the region’s collective commitment to the peaceful and responsible use of outer space.

Building on this momentum, and as ASEAN Chair in 2026, the Philippines will host the ASEAN Space Situational Awareness and Space Traffic Management Seminar-Workshop on 12–13 March 2026, in partnership with UNOOSA. This initiative aims to deepen regional dialogue and strengthen cooperation on SSA and STM, enabling Southeast Asia to collectively address emerging challenges and promote the long-term safety and sustainability of the space environment.

Mr. Chair,

The Philippines has, on several occasions, noted the presence of space debris within areas under its jurisdiction. As global space activities continue to expand, we note with concern indications of increasing frequency, which pose potential risks to public safety, livelihoods, and the marine environment.

These developments underscore the importance of meaningful prior coordination consistent with international law and existing international frameworks. The Philippines looks forward to constructive dialogue on practical and mutually acceptable solutions that promote responsible and sustainable space operations.

As the Committee concludes the work of the Working Group on the Long-term Sustainability of Outer Space Activities, the Philippines expresses its continued support for advancing this important agenda. We reaffirm our belief that multilateralism, transparency, and diplomacy must remain at the core of our collective efforts to safeguard the peaceful, sustainable, and cooperative use of outer space for present and future generations.

Thank you, Mr. Chair.

The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) continues to empower future space scientists, engineers, and communicators through the pilot run of Code, Build, Launch: CanSat 101, a Can Satellite Development Bootcamp for high school students.

Held from 26 to 30 January 2026, the bootcamp was conducted in partnership with Adamson University (AdU) through its Space Technology and Applications Research Laboratory (STARLab). The program equipped students with foundational knowledge in satellite development by guiding them through the end-to-end process of designing, building, programming, and testing a Can Satellite (CanSat)—a simulated satellite approximately the size of a soda can. 

Dr. Gay Jane P. Perez, Ad Interim Director General of PhilSA, sends an inspiring message for the participants of the CanSat 101.

PhilSA Ad Interim Director General Gay Jane P. Perez, Ph.D., emphasized the importance of early, hands-on exposure to space science and technology through strong collaboration between government and academic institutions in her video message.  

“[CanSat 101] reflects a shared commitment to helping young Filipinos explore, learn, and discover what is possible in science and technology. Through initiatives like this bootcamp, PhilSA works with schools and partners to give students early, hands-on exposure to real space concepts, turning curiosity into skills and ideas into actions,” Dr. Perez stated. 

Dr. Rosula S.J. Reyes, AdU Vice President for Academic Affairs, delivers the welcome remarks.

Dr. Rosula S.J. Reyes, AdU Vice President for Academic Affairs, highlighted the role of the bootcamp in fostering scientific curiosity and preparing students for real-world challenges. 

“This program represents more than the training activity. It is a meaningful investment in the future, one that nurtures curiosity, creativity on scientific thinking among our young learners. Through this initiative, students are not only introduced to the fundamentals of space science and satellite technology, but also to the values of collaboration, problem solving and innovation that define real-world scientific work,” Dr. Reyes said. 

Experiential learning in Can Sat development 

During the bootcamp, student teams from selected schools in National Capital Region (NCR), Regions III, IV-A, VI, and XI were tasked to conceptualize their satellite mission, design, and prototype their own CanSat including its payload. The teams also developed software codes to support data acquisition and sensor operation.  

The five-day bootcamp culminated in the testing and launch of the CanSats, followed by data analysis and team presentations. Students evaluated their mission results using collected telemetry and sensor data, demonstrating their understanding of satellite development from concept to post-mission assessment. 

Integrating theory, practice, and expert mentorship 

Complementing the hands-on activities were structured lectures and mentoring sessions led by Dr. Mark Angelo C. Purio, Head of the AdU Space Technology and Applications Research Laboratory (STARLab). These sessions provided participants with a strong theoretical foundation in space science and satellite development, enabling them to contextualize their hands-on activities within real-world mission scenarios and systems-level thinking. 

He also shared his practical expertise in satellite systems development, drawing from his experience as lead for the Camera Mission (CAM) of the BIRDS-4 Satellite Project, as well as his role as one of the engineers behind Maya-2, the Philippines’ 1U CubeSat launched to the International Space Station on 21 February 2021. 

PhilSA satellite engineers also shared their experiences and insights during the bootcamp, including Engr. Renzo Wee, Project Lead for the Maya-3 and Maya-4 CubeSats; Engr. Edgar Paolo Violan, who was involved in the development of the Diwata-2 microsatellite and the upcoming Multispectral Unit for Land Assessment (MULA) satellite; and Engr. Jeric Brioso, Amateur Radio Unit Receiver engineer for Diwata-2. Their collective expertise provided participants with deeper appreciation of the critical role Filipino engineers play in advancing the country’s space program, serving as inspiration for students to pursue careers in space science and technology. 

Through interactive discussions, guided problem-solving, and one-on-one mentoring, participants deepened their understanding of mission design, systems engineering principles, and data interpretation. Each mentor provided technical guidance throughout the development process, supporting teams in refining their CanSat designs, addressing system-level challenges, and optimizing software and sensor integration.

PhilSA Space Science Missions Bureau Director Reinabelle Reyes, Ph.D. (seated, center left) and AdU College of Engineering Dean Engr. Antonio P. Doroliat, Ph.D. (seated, center right) in a photo opportunity with the facilitators and participants of CanSat 101.

Through sustained partnerships with academic institutions, PhilSA continues to advance space science education in the country by fostering early interest in satellite development and providing students with meaningful, hands-on learning experiences.  

Building on the success of its pilot run, PhilSA is working towards institutionalizing the CanSat bootcamp as a yearly program, with plans to invite more participating teams from schools nationwide. By expanding the program’s reach nationwide, PhilSA aims to strengthen the pipeline of future Filipino space scientists, engineers, and innovators. 

The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) has successfully completed the first phase of the Know-How Transfer and Training Program on Small Launch Vehicle in partnership with Perigee Aerospace, a Korean space mobility company—marking a key step toward developing the Philippines’ indigenous launch capability.

The multi-stage training program began with a two-day technical workshop in Quezon City in October 2025, followed by an intensive three-week hands-on sounding rocket training in South Korea from October to November 2025. The program equipped selected PhilSA engineers with foundational and applied knowledge in launch vehicle systems through classroom instruction on basic rocket theory and practical experience in rocket subsystem assembly. 

The training utilized Perigee’s Blue Whale 0.1 (BW0.1) sounding rocket platform—South Korea’s first privately developed liquid-propellant rocket—which has previously demonstrated successful test flights from Jeju Island. Originally launched by Perigee in 2021, the BW0.1 has since been used in the company’s educational programs for domestic and international institutions. Through this platform, PhilSA engineers gained exposure to actual launch vehicle development processes, from theoretical design considerations to assembly and testing. 

PhilSA engineers during one of their classroom instructions on basic rocket theory

Drawing from its experience in Korea’s small launch vehicle development, Perigee shared practical insights from test launches, regulatory processes, and space ecosystem development. These contribute to the Philippines’ preparedness for potential local launch operations in the future. 

This initiative forms part of PhilSA’s broader efforts to strengthen the national space workforce and build sovereign technical capabilities through international cooperation. Beyond delivering concrete technical outputs, the program lays the groundwork for future activities, including possible localized assembly, testing, and launch operations in the Philippines. 

The training is an outcome of the long-standing cooperation between PhilSA and Perigee, which began with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in 2022 in the Philippines. Since then, both institutions have engaged in collaborative and exploratory activities related to small launch vehicle missions and reusable rocket technologies. 

PhilSA and Perigee will continue to generate technical and operational insights relevant to future spaceport development, industrial partnerships, and regional cooperation. The initiative represents the Philippines’ first structured training engagement focused on launch vehicle technology—further supporting the country’s transition from a space service user to a more active contributor in the regional space sector. 

PhilSA advanced the Philippines’ indigenous launch capability by training its engineers through a hands-on small launch vehicle program with Perigee Aerospace.

About PhilSA 

The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) is the central government agency of the Philippines that plans, develops, and promotes the national space program in line with the Philippine Space Policy. Created in August 2019 under Republic Act No. 11363, or the Philippine Space Act, PhilSA is an attached agency of the Office of the President of the Philippines for purposes of policy and program coordination and to ensure alignment in national policies and priorities. 

About Perigee Aerospace 

Perigee Aerospace is an end-to-end space mobility company, developing high-performance launch vehicles, propulsion systems and spacecraft components. Perigee provides sustainable access to Earth orbit and beyond; making space accessible, reliable, and efficient. Backed by expertise in liquid propulsion technologies, Perigee aims to opening innovative pathways for the future of space transportation.

The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA), the European Union Delegation (EUDEL) to the Philippines, and Department of Science and Technology (DOST) conducted the third Steering Committee meeting of the EU National Copernicus Capacity Support Action Programme for the Philippines or CopPhil on 26 January 2026. 

The meeting was joined by representatives from national government agencies including the Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD), Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), DOST–Advanced Science and Technology Institute (ASTI), Philippine Information Agency (PIA), Office of Civil Defense (OCD), and Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA). International partners in attendance included Collecte Localisation Satellites (CLS), CopPhil‘s technical partners, and European Space Agency (ESA) partners. 

The Steering Committee outlined priorities for CopPhil’s next implementation phase, emphasizing the expansion of operational Earth observation (EO) services, the transition of pilot initiatives into sector-ready applications, stronger inter-agency coordination, and wider adoption of Copernicus data across government operations. 

PhilSA Director General Gay Jane Perez, Ph.D. noted that this is a significant time for CopPhil as the programme enters implementation phase. This transition enables partners to evaluate early outcomes, identify areas for refinement, and direct collective efforts toward achieving greater and more sustained impact. 

PhilSA Director General Perez, Ph.D. also mentions that as CopPhil continues to evolve, its value increasingly lies in how its components connect and reinforce one another―how improved data access enables services, how services generate demand for skills, and how partnerships help sustain these gains.

Building on this transition to a more operational phase, discussions centered on expanding EO pilot services that utilize satellite data into practical tools for priority sectors. These include ground motion monitoring, land cover, forest and crop mapping, and benthic habitat monitoring in collaboration with PhilSA, DOST, DOST–Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS), National Mapping and Resource Information Authority (NAMRIA), and DA–Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM).  

Progress on the Copernicus Mirror Site was also tackled, highlighting its role in improving local access to EO data and supporting faster and more efficient EO data retrieval in the Philippines.  

Another key topic covered was the SCOPE DIGITAL initiative, focusing on the expansion of EO-enabled services across Southeast Asia, starting with Thailand and Indonesia. Discussions highlighted applications such as fire monitoring, land cover mapping, and ground motion monitoring, as well as opportunities to strengthen regional collaboration, service deployment, and capacity-building efforts. 

The Steering Committee underscored the importance of integrating Copernicus data into national government operations, including its growing use under DOST’s Geospatial Analytics and Technology Solutions (GATES) Program, an integrated geospatial analytics and EO data platform. Agencies such as the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) were identified as key beneficiaries, particularly for climate resilience, disaster preparedness, and risk management. Members further emphasized the need to develop EO products that meet specific agency needs for effective decision-making. 

Capacity building remains a central pillar of CopPhil as upcoming outreach, visibility, and stakeholder engagement activities were discussed. These aim to broaden stakeholder participation, encourage youth involvement, and increase awareness and adoption of Copernicus services.  

In line with the Philippines’ ASEAN Chairmanship, discussions also explored space-related priorities and opportunities to deepen regional and international cooperation in EO and space initiatives. These exchanges underscored the country’s growing role in regional knowledge-sharing, service deployment, and advancement of space-enabled development. 

As CopPhil advances into its next implementation phase, partners reaffirmed their commitment to scaling EO-driven services, strengthening inter-agency coordination, expanding regional collaboration, and sustaining Copernicus infrastructure and applications in the Philippines. The Third EU CopPhil Programme Steering Committee meeting marked a continued step toward enhancing the country’s capacity to harness EO and space technologies in support of national development priorities and the EU Global Gateway strategy.  

About CopPhil 

The EU Copernicus Philippines programme is funded by the EU with a 10 million euro (624 million PHP), implemented by the Philippine Space Agency and European Space Agency in coordination with the Philippines Department of Science and Technology (DOST). The programme supports the adoption of advanced technology to help local public administration, institutions and companies prevent natural disasters, protect the environment, and manage national resources. The project involves three elements: developing a Copernicus data centre in the Philippines, piloting services showcasing the practical applications of EO data (ground motion monitoring; land cover, forests and crop mapping, and marine environment monitoring) and supporting the country to strengthen local capacities and promoting education in the field of EO. Copernicus services have already demonstrated its value to the local authorities, when the satellites were activated from Europe last July to map an oil spill caused by the sinking of MT Terra Nova following the heavy rains and rough waters from super typhoon Carina.   

CopPhil is a flagship programme of the European Union Global Gateway Strategy, which aims to engage with partners globally around shared priorities such as the transition to a green economy, education and research, or digital infrastructure. To learn more about the impact of CopPhil on the Philippines and its neighbours, click here.   

About PhilSA 

The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) is the central government agency of the Philippines that plans, develops, and promotes the national space program in line with the Philippine Space Policy. Created in August 2019 under Republic Act No. 11363, or the Philippine Space Act, PhilSA is an attached agency of the Office of the President of the Philippines for purposes of policy and program coordination and to ensure alignment in national policies and priorities.