ILOCOS SUR, PHILIPPINES — September 2026 — The Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) Space Society (ISS) has earned a spot among the Top 10 finalists in the prestigious UNISEC Space Innovation Challenge, advancing to the final round of the regional competition in Bangkok, Thailand.
The ISS team will present its innovative project, “Foraging Habitat Suitability Modeling for Whale Shark,” at the finals on October 26, 2026, where finalist teams from across the Asia-Pacific region will showcase satellite-data-driven solutions to real-world challenges.
The project demonstrates how satellite data and space-based technologies can be applied to marine biology and conservation, particularly in understanding and modeling suitable foraging habitats of whale sharks. Through the application of satellite data, the team aims to contribute to science-based approaches that can support marine research and conservation efforts.
The team is led by Adviser Engr. Herold C. Caisido and Co-Adviser Mr. Jerome A. Azul, alongside student members Chatten Bion P. Abrera, Vince Kharlo B. Caringal, Rome Justin C. Caro, Khen Josef H. Evicner, Romer Jerome B. Lemery, Giovanni Paolo C. Mondejar, Kent Alster T. Palmares, James Bernard S. Rabago, Jeishan Khlynt D. Talan, and Founder Dave Loui A. Gumarang.
At the Bangkok finals, the Top 10 teams will compete for first and second place, the Future Observation Award, and various company-sponsored prizes. Finalists are expected to deliver their proposals in person before an international audience and panel of judges.
The UNISEC Space Innovation Challenge brings together university teams across the Asia-Pacific region to explore innovative applications of satellite data in addressing pressing societal and environmental challenges, including disaster response, agriculture, climate adaptation, and marine and environmental sustainability.
The 2026 competition is also an official side event of the 32nd Asia-Pacific Regional Space Agency Forum (APRSAF-32), further highlighting the regional significance of the initiative and providing participating students with an opportunity to engage with the broader Asia-Pacific space community.
For the ISAT U Space Society, reaching the Top 10 marks a significant milestone in the university’s growing involvement in space science, satellite technology, and interdisciplinary research.
With their whale shark habitat modeling project, the team is bringing together space technology, environmental science, and marine conservation—demonstrating how innovative applications of satellite data can help address challenges on Earth.
As the team heads to Bangkok, ISAT U and the ISAT U Space Society look forward to representing the Philippines and showcasing the potential of Filipino students in developing space-enabled solutions for global and regional challenges.
