The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA), in partnership with Central Mindanao University (CMU), its College of Engineering, and the Geomatics Center for Research and Extension in Mindanao (GeoMin), conducted the PINAS Workshop in Bukidnon from 24 to 25 November 2025 to expand the use of practical space data applications in the region. 

The two-day activity gathered representatives from regional government agencies, local government units (LGUs), and non-government organizations (NGOs). It also featured a student symposium on the first day. Participants took part in technical presentations on space data applications, discussions on the goals of the PINAS Project, and hands-on sessions on mapping and the use of the ODK app for on-ground data collection. 

CMU Vice President for Resource Generation and Management Dr. Ricardo G. Villar, speaking on behalf of University President Dr. Rolito G. Eballe, delivered the welcome remarks. In his message, Dr. Villar welcomed opportunities for collaboration with the Bukidnon stakeholders present at the PINAS Workshop. He emphasized the growing need to build the province’s capabilities in geospatial analysis and integrate space science and technology applications (SSTA) into planning and operations.  

This was followed by the presentation of PhilSA’s regional partner through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in 2023, the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA), on their ongoing efforts to drive regional growth and sustainability, delivered by Mr. Wilson Mabale, the Focal Person for Power of the MinDA Northern Mindanao Area Office. 

GeoMin Center Director Eric N. Bruno also presented CMU and the GeoMin Center’s space-related programs. He showcased significant outputs from years of research and extension work and their societal impacts, along with a continued invitation for workshop participants, particularly students, to collaborate on research, development, and environmental monitoring. 

PhilSA also equipped participants with a package of ready-to-use maps and data to help them apply space technology in local planning and operations. The package includes maps showing historical flood events, ground motion data, air quality information, and Sentinel-1 and 2 satellite imagery. These resources are meant to support land use planning, environmental monitoring, and disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM) efforts in their communities. 

PhilSA likewise introduced the Data Allocation and Operational Information (DALOI) Project, which provides access to space data from satellite sources managed by the Agency. This initiative enhances the use of space-based information in local decision-making and operational workflows. 

During the participatory mapping and knowledge needs assessment session, participants identified key issues in their communities, including environmental management concerns, conservation priorities, and the need for sustained capacity-building programs. These insights will inform future activities under the PINAS Project to better support regional development.  

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, Antique, and Batangas.

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.