The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) continues to strengthen its efforts to advance space education and awareness in the country through its Space Science Camp for Educators, held from 23 to 25 September 2025, in Quezon City.  

In partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd) and Rizal Technological University (RTU), the three-day training program equipped teachers and education leaders with the knowledge and tools needed to integrate space science and technology applications (SSTA) into classroom instruction and learning initiatives. 

23 participants composed of Education Program Supervisors, School Heads, Science Head Teachers, and Master Teachers specializing in science from the DepED Regions VI and XI participated in the program.  

During the training, participants engaged in a series of lectures, workshops, and field visits designed to deepen their understanding of SSTA and their potential applications in education. 

PhilSA Deputy Director General for Space Science and Technology Dr. Gay Jane P. Perez delivers her message for the participants of the 2nd Space Science Camp for Educators.

In her keynote message, Dr. Gay Jane P. Perez, PhilSA Deputy Director General for Space Science and Technology, underscored the educators’ vital role in shaping the future of Filipino youth. 

“You are not just participants in this program. You are pioneers, bringing space down to the classroom—into lesson plans, school activities, investigatory projects, and local innovations. And in doing so, you are planting seeds that will grow for generations,” Dr. Perez said. 

Space Science Camp participants pose for a group photo with DDG Perez and PhilSA organizers.

Immersive learning and field exposure 

The camp combined theoretical sessions with interactive, hands-on learning. Educators delved into a range of topics from the interdisciplinary nature of space science and technology to space law and treaties guiding the responsible use of outer space. 

Participants also went on an educational tour of the country’s space science facilities, including the Full Anechoic Chamber (FAC) and research laboratory at the University Laboratory for Small Satellites and Space Engineering Systems (ULyS³ES) at the University of the Philippines Diliman. The tour also included the Ground Station at the Department of Science and Technology–Advanced Science and Technology Institute (DOST–ASTI) and the PhilSA office in Quezon City. 

To further promote interest and awareness in astronomy, a telescope demonstration and planetarium activity was conducted by RTU at their main campus in Mandaluyong City. 

Building classroom action plans 

The camp concluded with the presentation of action plans developed by participating school divisions to sustain and strengthen space science education in the classroom. These plans aim to build long-term initiatives that bring space science closer to students through continuous learning, innovative teaching strategies, and collaborative activities that inspire curiosity and exploration. 

The Divisions of Iloilo Province and Iloilo City will develop lesson exemplars, STEM modules, and inquiry-based activities that integrate astronomy and space science concepts into the curriculum. In Davao City, teachers will create immersive learning experiences and opportunities for students to interact directly with space experts. Meanwhile, the Division of Aklan will engage learners in robotics competitions, research projects, and the development of instructional materials on space science aligned with DepEd learning competencies. The Division of Capiz, on the other hand, will maximize the use of Earth and space science learning equipment to make classroom demonstrations more engaging and meaningful.  

These commitments reflect the growing recognition among educators of the value of space science in inspiring curiosity and fostering innovation among Filipino learners. 

Educators during the awarding of certificate of completion.

Sustaining space education initiatives  

Building on the success of the educators’ camp, PhilSA is set to launch a Space Science Camp for Students in Regions VI and XI. The agency will also distribute SSTA Kits to selected schools to further support integration of space science and technology into curricular and co-curricular activities.  

PhilSA is continuously expanding its space education programs nationwide, ensuring that more schools, teachers, and students can access opportunities to learn about and apply space science in everyday contexts.