MANILA, Philippines – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced that the Philippines will conduct its first liquid-fueled sounding rocket launch from Philippine soil in 2027, marking a major milestone in the country's efforts to build its own space industry.
The President highlighted the project during his fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday, saying Cagayan is well-positioned to become the country's gateway to space.
"Cagayan is both geographically and economically primed to serve as our gateway to space and host the country's first spaceport," Marcos said, adding that the sounding rocket test launch is scheduled for next year.
The mission will demonstrate a liquid-fueled rocket developed for launch in the Philippines. It will carry a locally developed payload weighing up to two kilograms and reach an altitude of at least five kilometers.
The project is being led by the Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA), the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), and the Cagayan Economic Zone Authority (CEZA). They are working with Ascend International Gateway Inc. and South Korea-based Perigee Aerospace.
Marcos said the government has started putting in place interim rules for rocket launches. These guidelines will support the country's long-term goal of establishing and operating a Philippine spaceport.
PhilSA Director General Gay Jane Perez said the country's location gives it a competitive advantage. With the Pacific Ocean to the east and its proximity to the equator, the Philippines is well-suited for safe and efficient rocket launches.
Perez said PhilSA is also pursuing a public-private partnership to develop a commercial spaceport. The facility aims to serve the growing global demand for launch services and attract international aerospace investments.
The program also includes advanced training for Filipino engineers through Perigee Aerospace. The initiative will strengthen local expertise in rocket technology, aerospace engineering, and launch operations.
Government and industry leaders said the project is expected to create opportunities in science, technology, education, and high-value investments. They added that it will help position the Philippines as an emerging player in the rapidly expanding global space economy.
— The Summit Express
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