International Asteroid Day: Filipino names honored in space

Asteroids are not just objects in space. They also carry the names of remarkable people, places, and stories from around the world, including the Philippines.

- By ELLALYN DE VERA-RUIZ

Several asteroids have been named after Filipinos, Filipino cities, historical figures, and mythological characters, which highlight the country's unique place in space science and culture.

Among these are asteroids named after historical and mythical Filipino figures, such as 7026 Gabrielasilang, named for Gabriela Silang, a revolutionary leader who fought for Philippine independence; 5749 Urduja, honoring the warrior princess from the 14th-century kingdom of Tawalisi; and 3757 Anagolay, named after the ancient Tagalog goddess of lost things.

Places in the Philippines are also commemorated, including 13513 Manila, named after the nation's capital, and 134346 Pinatubo, named after the famous volcano on Luzon Island that erupted in 1991.