MANILA — The Philippines could have its very first astronaut through SpaceX, according to the Department of Trade and Industry.

DTI said this was one of the topics discussed during a meeting between Trade Secretary Cristina Roque and SpaceX/Starlink executives in Hawthorne, California last March 5.

In a statement, the DTI said the meeting was held to discuss expanding satellite broadband connectivity across the country and visionary projects that could transform the nation. 

"Beyond connectivity, the meeting explored transformative possibilities in space. SpaceX, Starlink's sister company, raised the prospect of sending the first Filipino into space under their human space flight program," DTI said.

SpaceX regularly conducts commercial rocket launches for satellites and has been tapped by NASA to resupply the International Space Station.

In 2007, Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor, a Malaysian doctor, became the first man from his country to fly into space, spending 10 days in low earth orbit aboard the ISS. The Malaysian was part of a Russian mission to the ISS.  

According to NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) 280 individuals representing 23 countries and five International Partners have visited the ISS.   

DTI said SpaceX has over 450 successful launches, has flown 56 crew members to space at "unparalleled affordability", and handles 90 percent of the world's payload in 2024.

According to the DTI, SpaceX officials led by Oliver Edelmann, Manager for Global Government Affairs, presented Starlink's achievements and expansion plans.

"Since its launch in February 2023, Starlink has deployed approximately 30,000 terminals nationwide, delivering high-speed internet to areas where traditional fiber-optic infrastructure is not feasible," DTI said. It also has over 100,000 subscribers and 13 ground gateway sites in the Philippines.

Roque meanwhile highlighted government efforts to enhance investment conditions, including the CREATE MORE law, which offers tax incentives for high-tech industries.