ISAT U graduate joins IAF Emerging Space Leaders

An aspiring aerospace engineer from Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) has earned international recognition as one of this year’s 40 International Astronautical Federation (IAF) Emerging Space Leaders.

Dave Loui A. Gumarang, a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering graduate of ISAT U’s College of Engineering and Architecture, was selected from more than 300 students and young professionals worldwide.

Only 40 candidates made the final cut following a rigorous review and ranking process based on the program’s official selection criteria.

The award recognizes outstanding contributions to the space sector and grants recipients fully funded participation in the annual International Astronautical Congress (IAC), often called the “Olympics of Space.”

The grant covers flight expenses, accommodation, per diem, congress registration, and access to side events.

For Gumarang, the recognition reflects ISAT U’s commitment to scientific inquiry.

“This achievement wouldn’t have been possible without ISAT U’s continued support for the ISAT U Space Society and its initiative in advancing space science and technology applications in the region,” he said.

Gumarang will present his paper, “Democratizing Space Education Through Local Applications in Emerging Space Nations: Insights from Youth-Driven Grassroots Outreach in the Philippines,” during an oral session at the IAC.

The IAF will host the congress in Antalya, Türkiye, on October 5-9, 2026.

“This paper highlights how space becomes less ‘out of reach’ when we bring it to communities, when we talk about it, and when we see how it shapes our everyday lives,” he explained.

This year’s congress is set to be the largest in the event’s history, with a record 8,300-plus abstracts submitted.

From that pool, the International Programme Committee selected 2,846 abstracts for oral presentation and 1,773 for interactive presentation, reflecting the scale of innovation and global engagement shaping the event.

Joining Gumarang in representing the Philippines in this year’s cohort is Dona Beatrix B. Marabe, a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering student at De La Salle University Manila.

Gumarang is also the founder of the ISAT U Space Society and the Iloilo Space Organization.