The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) conducted the PhilSA Integrated Network for Space-Enabled Actions towards Sustainability (PINAS) Workshop for local government units (LGUs), government offices, and non-government organizations (NGOs) in Batangas from 29 September to 01 October 2025.

The two-day activity, which also featured a student symposium , included technical presentations on space data applications, discussions on the objectives of the PINAS Project, and practical hands-on exercises on mapping and the use of the ODK app for on-ground data collection.

The workshop was organized in partnership with Batangas State University (BatStateU), represented by Engr. Albertson D. Amante, Vice President for Research, Development, and Extension Services. In his opening remarks, Engr. Amante highlighted the vital role of space science in addressing local challenges and emphasized how collaboration and knowledge-sharing can transform industries and improve lives.

PhilSA Space Information Infrastructure Bureau Director Ariel C. Blanco introduced PhilSA, the Space Value Chain and various applications of Earth observation (EO) data for planning and informed decision-making.

To support participants in using space-based tools for planning and operations, PhilSA provided a geospatial data package containing ready-to-use datasets and maps (GeoTIFF rasters and shapefiles). These included land cover classification maps, historical flood extent maps, agricultural drought outlooks, satellite imagery, and other relevant datasets. The resources are intended to enhance existing programs in land use planning, environmental monitoring, and disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM).

PhilSA also introduced the Data Allocation and Operational Information (DALOI) Project, which provides accessible space data from various satellite sources managed by the Agency. This initiative strengthens the use of space information in local decision-making and operations.

During the participatory mapping and knowledge-needs assessment session, participants identified key issues in their localities, such as flooding, conservation concerns, and land-use changes. They also determined the types of satellite data and capacity-building activities that could help address these challenges.

Participatory mapping workshop

Presentation of a participant from the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) during the knowledge and needs assessment session.

PhilSA is set to strengthen its partnership with the Batangas City LGU and Batangas State University (BatStateU) through formal collaboration agreements.

Launched in October 2022, PINAS is an active network of 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 Antique. Online meetings are also conducted with various regions to introduce the PINAS Project, laying the groundwork for future collaborations. Interested individuals and organizations may join the PINAS Network here.