Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday approved key measures aimed at strengthening the country's space science and technology capabilities, including satellite development, telecommunications infrastructure, and space safety initiatives. During the ninth meeting of the Philippine Space Council in Malaca±ang, the council reviewed major developments in the country's space program and adopted several resolutions intended to enhance the use of space-based technologies for national development.
According to Philippines News Agency, among the measures approved was a resolution declaring the Multispectral Unit for Land Assessment (MULA) Constellation Program a national priority undertaking. The MULA satellite is targeted for launch as early as April 2027 and is expected to support disaster risk reduction, agricultural monitoring, environmental assessment, and resource management.
The council also approved the establishment of a Philippine Sovereign Geostationary Telecommunications Satellite Program, which aims to provide secure and reliable communications services under Philippine control. Officials said the proposed satellite system would help improve connectivity in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas, strengthen disaster resilience, and support critical government operations.
The council likewise adopted a resolution harmonizing satellite data requirements among government agencies to improve planning, monitoring, and decision-making while reducing duplication of resources. In response to increasing space activities over Philippine territory, the council also approved a national Orbital Debris Response Protocol to guide government agencies in addressing incidents involving space debris and rocket reentries.
PhilSA reported that it monitored 90 space vehicle drop zones within Philippine waters and airspace between June 2022 and May 2026. The agency also updated the council on preparations for a sounding rocket test launch in Lal-lo, Cagayan, scheduled between December 2026 and February 2027 as part of efforts to develop indigenous space launch capabilities.
