PCW pays tribute to first woman NASA Missions Operations Manager


The Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) is one with the nation in remembering the life and works of Filipina physicist Angelita Castro-Kelly, the first woman to hold the position of Mission Operations Manager at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).

The multi-awarded Pinay succumbed to lupus complications on June 7, at the age of 73. She is survived by her husband and three children.

Castro-Kelly was raised and born in Sampaloc, Manila. In 1962, she did not only obtain her Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Physics degree at the University of Sto. Tomas, but also graduated with the highest latin honors, summa cum laude.

The Pinay scientist was a recipient of the 1993 Presidential Award “Pamana ng Bayan” for Science and Technology and belongs to the 100 Most Influential Filipinas in the United States.

The PCW is grateful to Castro-Kelly for inspiring “Juanas” to dream big and prove that women are equally competent and capable as men, particularly in the traditionally male-dominated field of Science and Technology.

The Commission sincerely extends its condolences to the bereaved family of Castro-Kelly.