The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) successfully conducted its third Training Course on Downstream Data Utilization from 20 to 24 October 2025 at Rizal Technological University (RTU) in Mandaluyong City.  

The five-day program equipped the participants with practical knowledge and skills in remote sensing (RS) and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) through a series of expert-led lectures and hands-on exercises. 

Engr. Arlo Jayson Sabuito of the PhilSA Space Data Mobilization and Applications Division (SDMAD) explains the properties of spatial features and the relationships between them.

The course covered essential topics, such as platform and sensor systems; digital image processing; mapping and projection systems, spatial data models and analysis; and map accuracy assessment and validation. PhilSA researchers also led sessions on field data collection techniques and demonstrated the real-world applications of RS and GIS.  

Participants conducted practical and hands-on exercises, including image pre-processing, interpretation, and transformation; image classification; flood mapping; and forest monitoring using tools such as Google Earth Engine (GEE), Google Earth Pro, and Quantum Geographic Information System (QGIS). 

Flood mapping exercise

Engr. Kristine Bantay of the PhilSA Space Data Mobilization and Applications Division (SDMAD) assists participants with the setup of Google Earth Engine.

To culminate the training, participants presented work plans showcasing how they could apply their geospatial learnings across various fields—from enhancing conservation efforts in the Northeastern Sierra Madre and improving LGU service monitoring to creating maps to combat the spread of schistosomiasis, dengue, and other diseases through targeted interventions. Educator-participants also explored ways to integrate RS and GIS into Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) curricula to advance research and streamline data management processes. 

Over 150 individuals from across the country applied for the third batch of the Training Course on Downstream Data Utilization. First launched in 2024, the training is part of PhilSA’s Space Education and Awareness Program (SEAP), which aims to promote public understanding and appreciation of space science and technology applications (SSTA). Through this program, PhilSA aims to cultivate a sustained pool of experts critical for future space programs, who are capable of responding to societal needs and enabling national development. 

PhilSA is set to hold the training twice a year, expanding opportunities for more Filipinos to acquire RS and GIS skills and advance the country’s geospatial capabilities. 

Training Course on Downstream Data Utilization – Batch 3 organizers and participants