'SAN KA PUNTA?' DTI explores sending first Pinoy to space

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is exploring the possibility of sending the first Filipino to space, following a meeting between Trade Secretary Cristina Roque and executives from SpaceX’s Starlink in California.

In a statement on Monday, Roque confirmed that she and other DTI officials met with Oliver Edelmann, Manager for Global Government Affairs of SpaceX, on 5 March to discuss expanding satellite broadband connectivity in the Philippines. The talks also touched on human spaceflight opportunities, paving the way for potential Filipino participation in space missions.

“Beyond connectivity, discussions with SpaceX highlighted potential human spaceflight opportunities, including the possibility of sending the first Filipino to space. SpaceX's impressive track record, with over 450 successful launches and significant payload dominance, underscores its capabilities. In addition, human spaceflight opens doors to groundbreaking clinical applications for treating various diseases,” Roque told reporters in a Viber message.

Philippines strengthens collab with SpaceX

The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) has already been working with SpaceX on satellite deployment initiatives. On 5 June 2023, locally developed cube satellites Maya-5 and Maya-6 were launched to the International Space Station aboard the SpaceX Falcon 9 as part of the company’s 28th commercial resupply mission.

Aside from potential human spaceflight missions, Roque said the partnership focuses on enhancing digital learning, e-government initiatives, and e-commerce, aiming to solidify the Philippines as a regional hub for satellite internet access.

The Philippines is the first Southeast Asian country to adopt Starlink, deploying 30,000 terminals to improve connectivity, particularly in underserved areas.

“The DTI is committed to fostering a business-friendly environment for Starlink through investment incentives under CREATE MORE and the Konektadong Pinoy Act, empowering MSMEs, improving education, and strengthening disaster resilience,” Roque said.

Currently, the Philippines has 13 Starlink gateway sites, which serve as ground stations linking satellites to terrestrial internet networks. However, the exact number of additional sites and terminals planned remains unspecified as Starlink continues its nationwide expansion.

Challenges and future plans

The DTI said expansion plans are being hindered by regulatory challenges, particularly the requirement for a Congressional franchise to establish and operate ground stations.

Starlink has been operating in the Philippines since February 2023, making it the first Southeast Asian country to adopt the service. It has deployed user terminals nationwide through its authorized reseller, Data Lake Inc., in GIDAs, local government units, and educational institutions, facilitated through partnerships with the Philippine Space Agency, the DICT programs, including the Free Wi-Fi Program and Government Emergency Communications System, and SM Malls, where Starlink kits have been sold since November 2023.