Astrophysicist sees PH as potential ‘Hub of Space Tech’ in Southeast Asia

In a report published by dost.gov.ph, astrophysicist Dr.Rogel Mari D. Sese said that the Philippines has the capability to become the hub of space technology and space applications in Southeast Asia during a press conference for the 23rd Session of the Asia-Pacific Regional Space Agency Forum, which was held last November 15-18, 2016.

Astrophysicist Dr. Rogel Mari D. Sese of Philippine Space Science Education Program of the Department of Science and Technology-Science Education Institute (DOST-SEI) /Image grabbed from dost.gov.ph

“We’re looking toward building our own space industry. We are a little bit behind. But if we do things right, we can take the lead in the Southeast Asian region,” he said.

Sese explained that this potential can gather engineers, scientists, and industry stakeholders around the region, instead of the country sending its professionals abroad to learn and be trained.

According to a report from Philippine News Agency, the astrophysicist shared that “it had been stated that we need around 800 aerospace engineers and scientists in the next 10 years. Studies have shown that for every one person that is directly involved in the space field, there are four other people who serve as support personnel.”

Meanwhile, DOST Secretary Fortunato T. de la Peña revealed that the government has earmarked P1 billion budget for space technology from 2017-2018, after which the yearly allocation would be around P2 billion.

Aside from the Philippine Science Education Program, SEI is also in constant collaboration with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency for several space awareness programs.

 

Source: dost.gov.ph, Philippine News Agency