LOOK | In a bid to boost research and development initiatives in the Bangsamoro region, the Ministry of Science and Technology spearheaded the Consultation on the Harmonized BARMM Research and Development Agenda (HBRDA), with twenty-eight (28) stakeholders from Cotabato City, Maguindanao del Sur, Maguindanao del Norte, and North Cotabato – Special Geographic Area, joining on November 14, 2023. The event took place at Alnor Hotel and Convention Center.

MOST, which chairs the Bangsamoro R & D Council, organized the activity with the aim of engaging representatives from the Academe, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), business and industry sectors, and government ministries/offices to identify and prioritize key R & D areas in BARMM for 2025-2030. The goal was to facilitate collaboration and partnerships among stakeholders to enhance the R & D ecosystem in the region.

Among the participants were Coland Systems Technology, Inc., Notre Dame University, Upi Agricultural School, Cotabato State University, Cotabato Foundation College of Science and Technology, Southern Christian College, University of Southern Mindanao, Metro Cotabato Chamber of Commerce, Bangsamoro Exit Overseas Workers Association, Moro Institute for Policy Research and Governance, Inc., The Moropreneur Inc., Kadtabanga Foundation for Peace and Development Advocates, Inc., and Mindanao Organization for Social and Economic Progress Inc.

Ministries, offices, and private organizations also took part in the consultation activity. Representatives were from the Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources and Energy, Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Bangsamoro Women’s Commission, Development Academy of the Bangsamoro, Bangsamoro Planning and Development Authority, Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Agrarian Reform, Bangsamoro Transition Authority – Policy Research and Legal Services, Office of the Chief Minister – Technical Management Services, Bangsamoro Board of Investments, Ministry of Trade, Investments and Tourism, Ministry of the Interior and Local Government, Bangsamoro Information and Communications Technology Office, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Science and Technology, and Impact Research Consultancy Services.

During the activity, Minister Engr. Aida Silongan emphasized the importance of this endeavor in responding to the needs of the Bangsamoro people through R & D initiatives utilizing science, technology, and innovation. “The Ministry of Science and Technology will always lead the way in responding to the needs of the Bangsamoro through the utilization of Science, Technology, and Innovation. We all know that a progressive region relies on Science, Technology, and Innovation, and this can be achieved through evidence-based research and development,” the Minister said.

The consultation was conducted through presentations, panel discussions, group discussions, and brainstorming sessions, and drafting of the new agenda to incorporate emerging challenges, needs, and opportunities. By involving key stakeholders, the consultations will ensure inclusivity, relevance, and alignment with the regional goals and objectives.

The resulting output of the new Harmonized Research and Development Agenda will reflect the needs and aspirations of the Bangsamoro people and serve as a guiding framework for sustainable development and progress in the region.

Furthermore, MOST will also conduct a series of consultations in Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi in December 2023.

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