The launch of Diwata-1 in 2016 ushered in a new era for Philippine Science, Engineering and Technology. The micro-satellite has been a poster boy for NASA because of its versatility and even its more accurate photographs being sent back to earth.
Diwata-2 which is a much more improved version of the superlative Diwata-1 is also slated for launch and deployment on 2018. The strides of the nascent Philippine Space Program have been accelerating and it is only logical that an agency be established for its long term planning, development and implementation.
The National Space Development Office will soon be created upon signing of the order by President Rodrigo Duterte.
Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Fortunato Dela Peña said the president supports the Philippines in participating in using space for national development.
This will make the country take a quantum leap with regards to communications, increase military capabilities, have a more in depth agriculture programs and projects and also disaster risk reduction and management.
Congress is set to push a bill for the establishment of the agency with an intial budget of Php1.0 Billion for its operations for 1 year.
This is a more rational course since currently, the country spends Php3.0 Billion for purchasing satellite photos from other countries.
Long term plans laid include the development of launch rockets and an astronaught program.
The Philippines is also an ideal location for rocket launches according to DOST.
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