Beyond the Classroom: Government-Led Astronomy Education Outreach in the Philippines - Insights from DOST-PAGASA^s Programs
Girlie G. Cortez

a.) Astronomical Publication and Planetarium Unit, Space Science and Astronomy Section, Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration, Quezon City, Philippines
b.) Assistant National Outreach Coordinator-Philippines, International Astronomical Union - Office for Astronomy Outreach (IAU-OAO)

Abstract

In the Philippines, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) plays a crucial role in fostering scientific literacy and promoting astronomy across diverse communities. This paper examines the evolution of astronomy education and public outreach initiatives by PAGASA, highlighting its key programs before, during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Before the pandemic, PAGASA conducted in-person seminars, planetarium shows, telescope viewings, and school-based lectures, with National Astronomy Week (NAW) as its flagship event. However, the pandemic in 2020 led to a temporary halt in activities, shifting outreach efforts to virtual platforms. During this period, PAGASA leveraged webinars, virtual telescope viewings, podcasts, and enhanced collaboration with international organizations like the International Astronomical Union - Office of Astronomy Outreach (IAU-OAO) to maintain public engagement, allowing for broader participation across the country. Post-pandemic, PAGASA successfully integrated both physical and virtual outreach, expanding its programs to include international projects/events such as Global Astronomy Month, Asteroid Day, Women and Girls in Astronomy, 100 Hours of Astronomy, and World Space Week among others.

This paper explores the evolution of PAGASA^s astronomy outreach strategies, its collaborations with other government agencies and international organizations such as the International Astronomical Union (IAU), and its role in making astronomy education accessible, inclusive, and engaging for Filipinos. By examining PAGASA^s experiences, this paper also provides insights in the importance of government support into the effective implementation of astronomy education and outreach initiatives, as well as transformative impact of astronomy outreach in inspiring future generations and fostering astronomically curious society in the Philippines.

Keywords: Public Outreach and Education, IAU-OAO

Topic: Public Outreach, Education, and Popularization of Astronomy