ILOILO City — Western Visayas is positioning itself as one of the country’s emerging innovation hubs as the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Region 6 ramps up investments in research facilities, scientific development, and technology-driven programs aimed at accelerating economic growth and long-term sustainability in the region.
Regional Director Rowen Gelonga said research and innovation are no longer optional tools for development but have become critical drivers of wealth creation, economic resilience, and improved quality of life for Filipinos.
“Isa ka pinaka-importante namon nga trabaho sa DOST ang ginatawag nga wealth creation. Kinahanglan naton mag-create sang wealth sa aton nga business and industry sector so we can attain economic progress and development. Ang second would be ang ginatawag naton nga wealth protection. Biskan manami ang imo income subong nga adlaw, basi bwas nag bagyo kita, gin bahaan kita — ang wealth nga na-create naton madula siya,” Gelonga said.
Gelonga said DOST Region 6’s strategic framework for 2023 to 2028 revolves around four major pillars: promoting human well-being, fostering wealth creation, reinforcing wealth protection, and institutionalizing sustainability.
According to Gelonga, research and development activities are central to these goals because they generate technologies capable of addressing long-standing development challenges in both industries and communities.
“What is involved in wealth creation? It includes conducting research, development, and mental innovation activities. In Western Visayas, we are supporting the establishment of different research centers,” he said.
He noted that Western Visayas has steadily expanded its scientific and research capabilities over the years, allowing the region to produce more technologies that can directly benefit local communities and industries.
“So, that’s why ang aton research is very important sa pag-come up or discover sang mga bag-o nga technology nga pwede ka-address sang aton mga development challenges,” Gelonga added.
Among the region’s major research assets cited by Gelonga is the University of San Agustin’s drug discovery and development facility, which he described as one of the best in the country.
It attracts researchers from Metro Manila and other parts of the country because of its advanced laboratory technology and highly trained scientists.
Gelonga also highlighted Central Philippine University’s packaging development and testing facility, which supports small and medium enterprises, as well as its wind energy laboratory that develops small wind turbines for community use.
Meanwhile, the University of the Philippines Visayas continues to strengthen research in fisheries and aquaculture through its advanced scientific facilities, including the Philippine Genome Center.
“Kag isa pa gid sina dira nga manami nga facility ang Philippine Genome Center. Pwede kita katuon genomics,” Gelonga said.
The Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT-U) has also recently launched a smart manufacturing facility aimed at training industries and businesses in robotics and modern technologies.
“This facility aims to equip business and industry stakeholders with the skills necessary in robotics and smart technologies, thereby enhancing competitiveness in the market,” Gelonga stressed.
Beyond economic growth, Gelonga underscored the importance of sustainability, saying development efforts today must not compromise the welfare of future generations.
“Sustainability is not merely an objective; it is a commitment to ethical stewardship of our resources, ensuring that we nurture our wealth in a manner conducive to supporting both our current needs and those of generations yet to come,” he said.
Gelonga stressed that the true value of scientific discoveries lies in their practical application and direct impact on communities and businesses.
“Kon mag-discover ka sang knowledge nga indi man magamit sang aton mga negosyante, sang aton mga community, balewala man siya gihapon,” he stressed./PN
