Cebu: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has called for increased use of space technology to tackle natural disasters, enhance climate resilience, and support inclusive development. During the 31st Session of the Asia-Pacific Regional Space Agency Forum (APRSAF) at Shangri-La Mactan in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, Marcos highlighted the significant role of space science and technology in daily life.
According to Philippines News Agency, Marcos pointed out the practical applications of space technology, such as using satellite imagery for disaster preparedness, weather forecasting for daily decision-making, and navigation systems that assist millions of Filipinos. He underscored the urgent need for space-based solutions in disaster-prone areas like the Philippines, which experiences an average of 19 to 20 tropical cyclones annually and around 20 recorded earthquakes each day.
Marcos noted that the Philippines' geographical location makes it vulnerable to the intensifying climate crisis, complex disasters, and widening development gaps. He emphasized that nations across the Asia-Pacific are increasingly turning to space science to improve governance, protect the environment, and promote inclusive development.
The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) has been instrumental in advancing space science and technology over the past six years. Marcos highlighted that PhilSA regularly provides satellite data to government agencies, local governments, researchers, and private-sector partners for disaster risk reduction and maritime domain monitoring.
He also mentioned the country's significant achievements in its space program, including the Multispectral Unit for Land Assessment (MULA) satellite, which will be the largest earth observation satellite for the Philippines. Marcos expressed enthusiasm over the satellite's completion, which will enhance the country's capability to monitor land and environmental changes.
Another key development is the establishment of the Copernicus Data Centre in collaboration with the European Commission. This facility, the first in Asia, stores and processes Earth Observation data, providing crucial information to Filipino experts and decision-makers.
Marcos urged the delegates to share their experiences, engage in meaningful dialogue, and implement strategies based on the responsible use of space technology. He called for a collective regional effort to leverage space science in addressing climate change, enhancing disaster resilience, and fostering inclusive economic growth.
The APRSAF, a key regional platform for cooperation in space science for over three decades, gathers policymakers, scientists, and industry leaders to exchange knowledge, build partnerships, and enhance regional space capabilities. This year's forum, themed 'Empowering the Region through Space Ecosystem in Action', focused on capability enhancement, space exploration, and industry development. It attracted delegates from across the Asia-Pacific, including representatives from the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, regional space agencies, government officials, and industry leaders, highlighting the Philippines' growing role as a hub for space-enabled solutions in disaster management and sustainable development.
