ILOILO – This province is moving to position itself as a future center for advanced technology and innovation.
Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. is pushing for the establishment of a technical-vocational (tech-voc) hub that will train young Ilonggos in emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, drone development, and 3D printing.
The proposed hub aims to provide senior high school and college students with specialized training in high-demand technologies, preparing them for careers in industries expected to drive future economic growth.
To advance the initiative, Defensor recently met with representatives of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), the Department of Education (DepEd), and several Iloilo-based State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), along with officials from various provincial government offices.
He sought the support of TESDA, DepEd, and the SUCs to provide technical expertise and academic guidance for the project, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in preparing Iloilo’s workforce for rapidly evolving industries.
Participating higher education institutions included the University of the Philippines Visayas, West Visayas State University, Iloilo Science and Technology University, Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology, and Northern Iloilo State University.
The initiative forms part of the governor’s broader vision of transforming Iloilo into a hub for drone development and advanced manufacturing technologies.
As part of these efforts, Defensor conducted a site visit on June 9 to the KVG facility at Berthaphil IV Airport Logistics Center in Clark Freeport, Pampanga. The visit followed earlier discussions between the provincial government, KVG, and Ackerman Consulting on the possibility of locating drone-related investments and technology ventures in Iloilo.
During the visit, KVG executives presented the company’s manufacturing operations, facility expansion plans, and technology initiatives. The Iloilo delegation also witnessed demonstrations of 3D-printing technology and additive manufacturing processes used in modern industrial production.
A drone flight demonstration highlighted the growing capabilities and practical applications of drone technology, while discussions explored opportunities in drone manufacturing, research and development, workforce training, and industry partnerships.
The discussions concluded with plans to pursue potential partnerships and investment opportunities that could strengthen Iloilo’s position as an emerging center for innovation, technology, and high-value industries./PN
