The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) and the Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences (MATE) formalized a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on 20 April 2026 to advance agricultural research, education, and technology development. The agreement was signed by PhilSA Ad Interim Director General Dr. Gay Jane P. Perez and MATE Rector Dr. Csaba Gyuricza.
PhilSA Ad Interim Director General Gay Jane P. Perez, Ph.D. (seated left) and MATE Rector Csaba Gyuricza (seated right) sign the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), witnessed by PhilSA Deputy Director General for Space Science and Technology Marc Caesar R. Talampas (left-most) and Her Excellency Titanilla Tóth, Ambassador of Hungary to the Philippines (right-most)
PhilSA Ad Interim Director General Gay Jane Perez delivers her welcome message.
“Through this cooperation, we aim to further advance the role of space science and technology in addressing real-world challenges, particularly in areas of agriculture and environmental monitoring. We firmly recognize the critical role of academia in the space ecosystem. It is within our universities and research institutions where knowledge is cultivated, innovation begins, and [where] future scientists, engineers, and leaders are shaped,” Dr. Perez said.
The partnership focuses on agricultural applications of space science and technology applications (SSTA). It will facilitate the exchange of students, researchers, and other personnel for research and training, promote the distribution of publications and technical materials, and undertake the joint planning of education and research initiatives.
Both institutions will also contribute their expertise to the development and application of models for agricultural mapping, monitoring, and assessment through satellite data. In addition, pilot activities on agricultural monitoring in both countries will be explored.
Dr. Csaba Gyuricza remarks how the differences between the Philippines and Hungary allow both countries to learn from one another and find common solutions.
“The mission of our university is to place knowledge [in] the service of society. We believe that a university does not exist for itself, but for farmers, for rural communities, and for future generations. In fulfilling this mission, partners such as the Philippine Space Agency play a key role. This agreement goes far beyond a formal framework of cooperation. It marks the beginning of a shared vision. A partnership where our researchers can work together on sustainable agriculture, climate adaptation, and digital innovation. A collaboration that offers our students access to cutting-edge knowledge and international experience,” said Dr. Gyuricza
Joining the signing were Her Excellency Titanilla Tóth, Ambassador of Hungary to the Philippines and the Department of Foreign Affairs-Office of European Affairs (DFA-OEA).
Ambassador Tóth highlights the connection between agriculture and space leading to sustainability and a prosperous future.
This partnership reinforces the growing diplomatic ties between the Philippines and Hungary in the field of space, underscoring a shared commitment to advancing SSTA for sustainable development. It also highlights both countries’ intent to deepen bilateral exchanges through academic and agricultural collaboration.
