Senator Manny Pacquiao has asked SpaceX, a US-based space exploration corporation, to establish a launchpad in the Philippines.
Spacecraft launchpad in the Philippines
Last week, senator Manny Pacquiao meets with representatives from Elon Musk’s SpaceX, along with senator Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III. They ask them about building a launchpad on Mindanao Island for our country to be part of the exploration.
This would establish the Philippines on the map of space exploration while also providing thousands of employment. It would open a lot of jobs for Filipino scientists, engineers, as well as laborers, and will provide other kinds of opportunities.
Moreover, the launchpad would not only serve its Asian clients, but would also allow the Philippines to deploy its satellites for communications, weather monitoring, topographical mapping, environmental protection, and research.
Senator Pimentel III claimed Mindanao is a good place for a spacecraft launchpad since it is close to the equator.
“The involvement of SpaceX in our country will not only bring in investments and jobs but will also put us at the forefront of space science,” Mr. Pacquiao said. He is also very excited about the possibility and what it could do for our country.
He also emphasized the need for the Philippines to have its communication satellite, particularly given the country’s reliance on the internet amid a coronavirus outbreak.
Aside from the launchpad, Pacquiao stated that if elected president, he plans to use low-orbit satellites to provide affordable internet in the Philippines.
“This technology provides various uses such as advancing online learning, e-government services, and disaster relief and coordination, as well as linking our overseas Filipino workers to their loved ones. Our future needs this technology,” he added.
The senator also inquired as to how Musk’s other companies may conduct business in the Philippines. Pacquiao suggested that Tesla batteries may be utilized to modernize jeepneys and that the Boring Company might develop a subway system to help decongest Metro Manila.
Source: BusinessWorld
