The Regional Research, Development, and Innovation Committee (RRDIC) of the Regional Development Council (RDC) VI proudly unveiled two groundbreaking initiatives during the 2024 Idlab Awards: The Harmonized Regional Research, Development, and Innovation Agenda (HRRDIA) 2023-2028 and the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Development Action Plan 2025-2030. The unveiling was led by Engr. Rowen R. Gelonga, Regional Director of DOST VI, Engr. Arecio A. Casing Jr., Regional Director of NEDA VI, and Atty. Dennis T. Ventilacion, representing Hon. Arthur J. Defensor Jr.

The HRRDIA 2023-2028 was crafted to identify priority areas for R&D and innovation in Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources (AANR); Health; Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technologies (IEET); and Basic Research. The agenda is responsive to the Western Visayas Regional Development Plan (WV RDP) 2023-2028 which sets regional development targets to attain the AmBisyon Natin 2040 or the “Matatag, Maginhawa, at Panatag na Buhay” for Western Visayas.

The AI Development Action Plan outlines actionable strategies to ensure ethical, inclusive, and impactful AI adoption. It focuses on nine key areas, including governance and ethics, talent development, R&D on AI, application in the industry, partnerships and linkages, data sharing and access, AI infrastructure development, AI startup development, and awareness, acceptance and use of AI. Aligned with AmBisyon Natin 2040, Pagtanaw 2050, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), it aims to lead Western Visayas towards becoming the “AI Hub in the Philippines” or the “Center for AI Development and Innovation.” These milestones reflect the region’s unwavering dedication to a future powered by science, technology, and innovation. (IGTGatpatan/ KFAD)