THE Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) and the Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) have entered into a new partnership aimed at expanding youth participation in space science and strengthening collaboration with Filipino experts abroad.
PhilSA Director General Gay Jane Perez and CFO Chairman Dante Ang II formalized the agreement on June 18, 2026.
The memorandum outlines joint efforts to integrate PhilSA’s educational initiatives — including the Space Science Camp — with CFO programs such as the Exchange Visitor Program (EVP), Youth Leaders in the Diaspora, and the Presidential Awards for Filipino Individuals and Organizations Overseas.
The collaboration also seeks to mobilize Filipino scientists, engineers, researchers, and technology professionals overseas to contribute to national space development through knowledge-sharing and mentorship under the EVP.
Perez underscored the role of public engagement in building a strong space ecosystem, saying, “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.”
Ang said the partnership aligns with the CFO’s mission to connect the diaspora with national progress. “This partnership brings our shared aspirations together. 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,” he said.
Both agencies said the initiative will deepen ties between the Philippines and its global community, opening more avenues for overseas Filipinos to support the country’s expanding space science and technology landscape.
In a related development, the United Nations has released a global edition of the Philippine children’s book “Si Tala at ang Kanyang Lakbay Kalawakan!,” marking its international debut during the 69th session of the UN Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS) in Vienna on June 12.
The United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (Unoosa) published the book in English and translated it into French, Arabic, Chinese, Spanish, and Russian. Originally produced in Filipino by the PhilSA in 2023, the story follows Tala, a young Filipino explorer who introduces readers to UN space treaties and the principles of peaceful and responsible space use.
Perez and Unoosa Director Aarti Holla-Maini led the launch, underscoring the role of early space education in shaping future generations.
“Tala and Her Journey to Space began as a simple yet meaningful vision, to introduce space law, diplomacy, and fundamental space concepts to Filipino children in a way that is engaging, relatable, and easy to understand,” Perez said, noting that the book was designed to help young readers appreciate the five UN treaties on outer space. She added that PhilSA welcomes its expanded reach and multilingual release.
Holla-Maini emphasized the broader message behind the project, saying, “Inspiring the youth is not just about teaching science; it is also about teaching the rules, cooperation, and diplomacy that keep space peaceful and sustainable for everyone.”
PhilSA’s founding director general, Joel Joseph Marciano Jr., was recognized for initiating the concept that eventually evolved into an international educational resource.
The UN edition follows a release agreement signed earlier this year between PhilSA and Unoosa, building on a partnership established in 2021. Additional translations are underway, with Liechtenstein preparing a German version and Malta and Slovenia developing editions in their national languages.
The global rollout marks a milestone for Philippine-developed space education materials, reinforcing the country’s growing role in promoting space policy and international cooperation.