The Philippine Space Agency is seeking a P1.38-billion budget for 2026, 44.5 percent less than its original proposal of P2.49 billion.
The allocation, included in the 2026 National Expenditure Program (NEP) and presented to the Senate Committee on Finance Subcommittee “L” on Wednesday, September 17, will cover programs in space science, national security, and environmental monitoring.
Among PhilSA’s target milestones for 2026 are the production of a Nationwide Benthic Habitat Map in partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources; the release of the 2025 Mangrove Map; the launch of the Maya-7 satellite; and the celebration of the Philippine Space Week.
PhilSA Deputy Director General for Space Science and Technology Gay Jane Perez said these initiatives would strengthen resilience in local communities.
“Our space data products are vital tools in protecting ecosystems, supporting farmers and fisherfolk, and enhancing disaster preparedness,” Perez said.
Unfunded but shovel-ready proposals amounting to P544.3 million were also identified.
These include projects to mobilize space data for maritime domain awareness, research scholarships and CubeSat launches under the ACQUIRES program, and industrial space launch systems under the SIKLAB initiative.
Perez said these would help the country “grow a domestic space industry and expand our presence in the global space value chain.” (PNA)
