QUEZON CITY, Philippines (Jun 2026) — Overseas Filipino scientists, engineers, and researchers could soon play a direct role in building the country’s national space program, thanks to a new government partnership signed last week.
The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) and the Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) formalized their collaboration through a Memorandum of Understanding signed on June 18, 2026. The agreement sets the stage for both agencies to work together on education, cultural exchange, and knowledge-sharing initiatives that connect the Philippine space sector with the global Filipino community.
Tapping the diaspora for space
At the core of the deal is a plan to bring overseas Filipino experts into the fold through CFO’s Exchange Visitor Program (EVP). Scientists, engineers, and technology professionals based abroad will be invited to share their knowledge and experiences with local counterparts, directly supporting the country’s growing space ecosystem.
The partnership also links up with CFO’s Youth Leaders in the Diaspora (YouLeaD) program and the Presidential Awards for Filipino Individuals and Organizations Overseas, giving recognition and structured pathways for Pinoys abroad to contribute to national development.
Space camp and youth programs
On the education side, PhilSA’s Space Science Camp will be integrated into the collaboration, creating more opportunities for Filipino youth — both local and overseas — to engage with space science and technology.
PhilSA Director General Dr. Gay Jane Perez said the agreement goes beyond hardware and infrastructure. “Building a sustainable space program is not only about satellites, infrastructure, or technology. It is equally about cultivating an informed and engaged citizenry that understands how space science and technology can contribute to addressing societal challenges and creating opportunities for national development,” she said.
CFO Chairperson Dante Francis M. Ang II framed the deal as a bridge between the diaspora and the homeland. “We hope to inspire overseas Filipino youth to appreciate Philippine achievements in science and technology, continue to engage Filipino scientists, researchers, engineers, and innovators abroad in supporting our country’s growing space sector, and foster greater collaboration between the diaspora and the homeland,” Ang said.
The MOU was signed at an event in Quezon City, with CFO Executive Director Atty. Ma. Arlene S. Borja and PhilSA Deputy Director General for Space Science and Technology Dr. Marc Caesar Talampas serving as witnesses for their respective agencies.
