Marcos declares August 8-14 as Philippine Space Week

MANILA, Philippines — President Marcos has declared Aug. 8 to 14 of every year as “Philippine Space Week” to highlight the value of space science and recognize Filipinos’ contributions in the field.

The declaration is contained in Proclamation 302 signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin by the authority of Marcos last July 25.

“There is a need to promote space awareness, celebrate the significant contributions of Filipinos worldwide in the field of space science and espouse the value, benefits and impacts of space science and technology applications on the lives of Filipinos,” the proclamation read.

The proclamation was in response to the recommendation of the Philippine Space Council for the designation of a “Space Week” in commemoration of the enactment of the Philippine Space Act on Aug. 8.

In its recommendation, the council cited the need to highlight the “substantial” influence of space science and technology applications on the socioeconomic development of the country.

The Philippine Space Act or Republic Act 11363 declares it a policy of the state to support and commit to the development, application and use of science and technology to “foster patriotism and nationalism and accelerate social progress.”

Marcos directed the Philippine Space Agency to promote the observance of Philippine Space Week by identifying the programs, projects and activities for the annual celebration.

He also instructed all government agencies, including government-owned or controlled corporations, state universities and colleges, local governments, non-government organizations and the private sector to actively participate in activities during Philippine Space Week.