President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has expressed strong optimism about initiatives aimed at protecting the space environment and enhancing climate and weather monitoring during the 31st Asia Pacific Regional Space Forum (APRSAF) held in the country.
Space Technology for Disaster Resilience
The President highlighted the critical importance of continuously developing space technologies to improve disaster detection capabilities. He specifically referenced the recent Typhoon Tino, which claimed numerous lives, and the earthquake that struck northern Cebu last month as examples where advanced technology could make a significant difference.
"Its benefits are evident in the satellite imagery that prepares communities for calamities, the weather forecasts that inform our daily decisions, and the navigation systems that guide us to our destinations," President Marcos stated on November 21, 2025.
International Collaboration for Space Advancement
This week, more than 40 countries and regions gathered in Cebu for APRSAF-31 to strengthen space capabilities across the Asia Pacific Region. The event brought together experts, policymakers, and stakeholders to examine space science and technology, space-enabled solutions, and the enhancement of regional collaboration and cooperation.
The forum is spearheaded by the Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) in partnership with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) and Japan's Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT).
As part of the activities, participants visited several educational institutions including Cebu Technological University (CTU), University of the Philippines CEBU, University of San Carlos (USC), and Indiana Aerospace University.
Space Industry Workshop Addresses Critical Issues
Concurrent with the main event, a Space Industry Workshop was conducted where various sectors studied common challenges such as disaster management and environmental protection, working collaboratively on solutions that could benefit different nations.
President Marcos emphasized that the development of space technology in various countries also helps protect the environment, stating: "This is how we translate our shared commitment into action: by expanding space science and technology and ensuring that outer space remains a domain of responsible stewardship."
The President concluded with a powerful message guiding all initiatives: "Space must serve the people. In this very pursuit, your efforts are more crucial than ever. So, I encourage you to share your invaluable experiences, engage in deep and profound dialogues, and implement effective strategies—anchored on our commitment to prudent and responsible utilization of space technology."
