ILOILO CITY – The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) vowed to boost the blue economy in the country following the recent National Science Technology and Innovation Week.
“DOST will ensure the protection, conservation, and sustainable utilization of our marine resources,” said DOST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr.
AN exhibit at the recent National Science Technology and Innovation Week in Iloilo City. (Tara Yap)
Solidum noted that the blue economy, a term in economics relating to the exploitation, preservation, and regeneration of the marine environment, is one of the 12 operational areas in “Pagtanaw 2050,” the 30-year strategic plan by the DOST advisory body in 2021.
Among the key sectors the DOST is looking at are the country’s fishing and fisheries industry, shipbuilding industry, maritime transportation, and renewable power.
DOST also wants to maintain a balanced marine ecosystem and promote eco-tourism.
DOST-6 (Western Visayas) Director Rowen Gelonga said Iloilo’s hosting of the event highlights the role of the Visayas region in innovations for the blue economy.
Gelonga said that DOST played a pivotal role in building a sea vessel that utilizes ocean wave energy.
The Hybrid Trimaran was constructed by Aklan State University (ASU) and Metallica Shipyard. The project was backed by the Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) and the provincial government of Aklan.
Gelonga added that the DOST is building partnerships with State Universities and Colleges for research and development focusing on Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading.