In a significant effort to strengthen research and development in the region, the Bangsamoro Government’s Ministry of Science and Technology, with the support of The Asia Foundation, spearheaded and convened the Bangsamoro R&D Council and Technical Working Group’s Strategic Planning Workshop on September 11-12, 2024.

The two-day activity, held at Savoy Hotel, Pasay City, aimed to provide a platform for the council and its technical working group to review the status and accomplishments of the BRDC, identify and prioritize key regional issues, formulate the BRD Framework and Roadmap, develop actionable plans and timelines for implementing several R&D initiatives, and strengthen coordination and collaboration among BRDC members and stakeholders.

In her opening remarks, Minister Engr. Aida M. Silongan, MAPDS, expressed optimism that the activity would produce productive outcomes for BRDC and its TWG initiatives, such as formulating the BRD Framework and Roadmap, reviewing achievements, identifying and addressing issues, creating detailed action plans, and enhancing coordination and collaboration mechanisms.

“The establishment of the BRDC has laid the foundation for a brighter and more innovative future for BARMM. The formulation of the BRD Framework and Roadmap will not only address the immediate needs of our region but also set a course for long-term sustainable development,” Minister Silongan emphasized.

Meanwhile, resource speaker Yassen S. Ala delivered a comprehensive presentation and discussion for the planning workshop. Topics covered included the validation of problems and solutions, mission, vision, and values; Harmonized BARMM R&D Agenda (HBRDA) Groupings Validation; HBRDA Validation – Issues, Activities, and Subthemes; and Strategic Goals and Roadmap for HBRDA Themes I and II.

During the workshop, Marifah Agar, Planning Officer V of the Bangsamoro Planning and Development Authority, presented and discussed insights on the 2nd Bangsamoro Development Plan, highlighting key aspects that will foster sustainable development in the region.

Engr. Benbellah-Ali Dandamun, Senior Science Research Specialist, also presented an assessment of the Harmonized Bangsamoro Research and Development Agenda (HBRDA) 2021-2025 and a draft of the HBRDA for 2025-2030.

Different stakeholders actively participated in the workshop and provided substantial input on addressing issues, formulating the BRD framework and roadmap, and developing action plans.

The Ministry of Science and Technology, together with the BRDC and its stakeholders, aims to coordinate and centralize scientific and technological research and development in the region. It ensures that all scientific, technological, and innovative endeavors under the research and development framework are well-established, formulated, and implemented to promote sustainable development in the region and address pressing needs, thereby improving the lives of its constituents.

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