DOST VI, as Chair of the RDC VI-RRDIC, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to support the implementation of the Regional Development Plan on Intellectual Property (RDP-IP) during the First IP Convention organized by the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) and UMWAD Western Visayas on September 27, 2024, at Sam’s 21 Hotel in Iloilo City. The MOU was signed alongside IPOPHL, DTI, NEDA, PCCI-Iloilo, and various Region VI SUCs and HEIs. The RDP-IP, developed by IPOPHL, aims to enhance IP initiatives, establish tailored upskilling programs, organize IP conventions, and assist stakeholders in securing IP protection and commercialization.
In his message of support, Engr. Rowen R. Gelonga, DOST VI Regional Director and Chairperson of RDC VI-RRDIC, highlighted the various initiatives of the committee which include the establishment of critical R&D and innovation centers, lowering the maximum faculty workload for SUCs, harmonization of intellectual property policy and technology transfer protocol of SUCs, and establishment of the Idlab Awards, a recognition program for local researchers and innovators. He added that having a strong IP Framework would encourage our researchers to do more, to empower our startups and innovators to bring their ideas to the market and attract local and international investors. He said that IP is not just merely a legal concept but a vibrant component of our region’s developmental strategy. Managing our IP assets will pave the way for a prosperous, dynamic, and sustainable future for Western Visayas.
As the lead policy-making body on R&D and innovation in the region, the DOST VI and RDC VI-RRDIC together with other stakeholders is committed to advance the intellectual property creation, protection, utilization, and enforcement for the socioeconomic development of Western Visayas.