The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) on Thursday said it signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Philippine-American Educational Foundation (PAEF) or Fulbright Philippines to provide scholarships and training programs for space science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

The partnership also aims to promote related fields such as space law and policy, business, economics, international relations and diplomacy, and communications.

The MOU, which was signed last February 17 at the PAEF office in Mandaluyong City, shall explore PhilSA and PAEF’s partnership through workshops and educational exchanges to further promote and pursue space education towards future participants.

According to PhilSA, implementing training and scholarships as an act of cooperation would contribute to the mutual understanding between the two parties, strengthening cordial relations, and maximizing the continuing cooperation between the Philippines and the United States.

At the MOU signing, PhilSA Director Joel Marciano Jr. said the partnership will inspire Filipinos and elevate the status of space science and technology in the country.

Both parties agreed that the Philippines and the US would identify space technology as a target area for cooperation under the US-Philippine Science and Technology Agreement signed in 2019.

“We look forward to deepening cooperation with PhilSA to explore the scientific, commercial, and national security benefits of space,” US Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Heather Variava said during the MOU signing.

Programs under the MOU will cater to Filipinos interested in learning the field of space science and technology applications. The programs to be introduced would also bring in experts from the US to conduct professional lecturing and research. (PNA)