The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) welcomed H.E. Johann Brieger, Ambassador of Austria to the Philippines, on 30 May 2025 for a high-level meeting aimed at exploring future collaborations on space matters. 

Ambassador Brieger met with Director General Dr. Joel Joseph Marciano Jr. and key PhilSA officials to learn about the agency’s work in building a space-ready Philippines. The two sides discussed possible partnerships in satellite data use, startup support, and joint research, especially in areas like disaster response and environmental monitoring. 

The discussion also touched on PhilSA’s use of satellite data to monitor mangroves, prevent illegal activities, and support emergency operations. There were also discussions about the Philippines’ ground stations, space industry plans, and the possibility of building future spaceports. 

PhilSA expressed interest in Austria’s space strategy and business incubators during the discussion. To foster future collaboration, Austrian space companies were invited to participate in the 31st Session of the Asia-Pacific Regional Space Agency Forum (APRSAF) and the International Space Forum (ISF) at the Ministerial Level – The Southeast Asian Chapter later this year. 

Dr. Marciano noted that the visit demonstrated how space can be a powerful tool for connecting countries and addressing real-world challenges. He shared PhilSA’s optimism about building stronger ties with Austria in the years ahead. 

The meeting was also conducted in preparation of the upcoming Philippines–Austria Political Consultations and the 68th Session of the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (UN COPUOS) in Vienna this June.