Marcos Jr.: Space technology key to disaster response

CEBU, Philippines — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. underscored the urgent role of space technology in disaster preparedness and climate resilience as the Philippines continues to reel from severe weather disturbances and earthquakes in recent weeks.

Speaking before participants of the 31st Asia-Pacific Regional Space Agency Forum (APRSAF-31) in Lapu-Lapu City yesterday, November 21, Marcos said space-based tools—such as satellite imagery and advanced weather forecasting—have become indispensable as the country confronts an “intensifying climate crisis” and the impact of recent calamities.

“Space technology is no longer something that only scientists and engineers appreciate—it is now woven into our everyday life,” the President said, noting how satellite data helps communities prepare for typhoons, floods, and other natural hazards.

More than 40 countries and regions are represented in this year’s APRSAF, regarded as the largest space-related conference in the Asia-Pacific. The forum, held from November 18 to 21, carries the theme “Empowering the Region through Space Ecosystems in Action,” which highlights shared regional goals of using space science to enhance disaster resilience, address climate change, and spur economic growth through research and innovation.

This is the second time the Philippines has hosted APRSAF, the first being in 2016.

Marcos said the forum comes at a critical time, as the Philippines experiences stronger and more frequent extreme weather events. He stressed that the country’s position along the Pacific typhoon belt and the Pacific Ring of Fire makes it extremely vulnerable to natural hazards.

“Our country now endures an average of 19 to 20 tropical cyclones every year, as well as an average of 20 recorded earthquakes every day—much like Japan,” he said.

He added that the relevance of space-enabled systems has become even more evident in the aftermath of recent calamities—particularly in providing early warnings and facilitating rapid damage assessment.

Marcos also highlighted the Philippines’ growing contributions to regional space development, citing key initiatives led by the Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA). Among these is the regular distribution of satellite data to government agencies, researchers, and private organizations for disaster risk reduction, maritime monitoring, and environmental management.

He also expressed optimism about the ongoing development of the Multispectral Unit for Land Assessment (MULA), which will be the country’s largest Earth observation satellite once completed.

The President likewise cited last year’s launch of the Copernicus Data Centre—the first of its kind in Asia—established through a partnership between PhilSA and the European Commission. The center provides locally accessible Earth observation data for policymaking, emergency response, and scientific research.

“These initiatives are guided by a simple conviction: Space must serve the people,” Marcos said, urging delegates to strengthen cooperation in the responsible use of space technology. He called on Asia-Pacific nations to harness space capabilities collectively to confront climate change, bolster disaster resilience, and support inclusive growth.

“Together, let us shape an Asia-Pacific region that can turn space science into concrete action for our people,” he said.

PhilSA Officer-in-Charge Dr. Gay Jane Perez said President Marcos’ message is a crucial reminder of how satellite data can directly improve the lives of Filipinos, especially amid worsening climate risks.

In an interview on the sidelines of the forum, Perez explained that satellite-derived information is essential in strengthening the country’s data governance, supporting the agriculture sector, enhancing disaster response, and improving various other applications.

Perez stressed that maximizing these technologies is even more important as the Philippines continues to reel from recent calamities and remains prone to frequent weather disturbances.

“Dito sa Cebu, with the unfortunate circumstances that we are in, we want to maximize this technology so next time we can plan better and respond faster,” she said, noting that timely and accurate satellite data greatly aids preparedness and recovery.

She emphasized the need for stronger collaboration among government agencies and said APRSAF-31 offers the Philippines a valuable platform to learn from regional space experts.

“Ang dinadalang benefits nito dito sa atin, they share the latest updates, progress of the technology, and different applications na puwede nating mapaggamitan ng satellite technology natin,” Perez said. (CEBU NEWS)