Philippine Space Agency

The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) officially welcomed new recipients of the Advanced Degrees for Accelerating Strategic Space R&D and Applications (AD ASTRA) Scholarships Program during a signing ceremony held in March 2025 at the PhilSA Office in Quezon City.

The event marked a significant milestone for the scholars as they will become part of the country’s pool of trained experts in the space science and technology applications (SSTA) sector. It also highlighted their commitment and role in advancing SSTA in the country.

During his inspirational message, PhilSA Director General Joel Joseph Marciano, Jr., Ph.D. underscored that the continuous process of knowledge creation is vital not only for individual growth but also for national progress, as the Philippines must actively contribute to the global pool of knowledge.

PhilSA Director General Marciano, Jr. expresses the Agency’s commitment to producing more opportunities for fellow Filipinos to pursue their dreams and ambitions for the Philippines through space science and technology.

A new generation of space experts

This year’s fourth batch of AD ASTRA scholars comes from diverse academic and professional backgrounds, reflecting the program’s dedication to fostering interdisciplinary research and education in space science:

Currently pursuing his Master of Science in Space Engineering at the University of Surrey in United Kingdom, Mr. Micah Angelo Bacani joins virtually.
Mr. Prince Niño Cuizon (left) is pursuing a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering, majoring in Thermofluidic Sciences, at Mapúa University.
Mr. Vincent Louie Maglambayan (center) is taking Master of Science in Physics degree at the De La Salle University – Manila.
Ms. Mary Rose Mabalay is completing her PhD in Agricultural Sciences at the Tokyo University in Agriculture and Technology in Japan.
PhilSA Deputy Director General for Space Science and Technology Perez emphasized that as AD ASTRA scholars, students are at the forefront of a vital mission. The knowledge and expertise they gain will contribute to advancing scientific discovery, empowering communities, and strengthening the country's position in the global space economy.

The contract signing was also joined by PhilSA Deputy Director General for Space Science and Technology Gay Jane. P. Perez, who is also the Chairperson of the Scholarship Committee. PhilSA Space Science Missions Bureau Director Reinabelle Reyes, Finance and Administrative Service Director Paul Heherson Balite, Dr. Julie Ann Banatao, and Atty. John Kristian Lalas were also present during the signing.

Advancing the Philippines’ Space Sector

Since its inception in 2021, the AD ASTRA Scholarships Program has empowered Filipinos to pursue postgraduate studies in fields related to SSTA. As of 2024, 19 local and foreign graduate scholars pursued masteral and doctorate degrees in local or international higher institutions. Four (4) scholars have already completed their degrees and are now contributing to the SSTA sector of the Philippines.

For more information about the AD ASTRA Scholarships Program, including application deadlines for each scholarship category, visit this link.