By Allan Mauro V. Marfal, DOST-STII

Solidum in his speech during the opening of the 2025 RSTW celebration in Central Visayas, outlined key strategic directions aimed at building a resilient and regenerative Blue Economy Agenda, which is anchored on inclusive, data-driven, and scalable solutions. (Photo courtesy of DOST)

Central Visayas, a region at the heart of the Philippine archipelago known for its rich marine biodiversity and vibrant coastal ecosystems, is emerging as a leader in advancing a science, technology, and innovation (STI)-driven Blue Economy—one that is resilient, inclusive, and climate-smart.

This was shared by Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr. during the opening of the 2025 Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (RSTW) celebration in Central Visayas at the Ayala Malls Central Bloc, Cebu City.

“Central Visayas is one of the most marine resource-rich regions in the country. Bounded by the Visayan Sea, Cebu Strait, Bohol Sea, and Tañon Strait,一the region has over 3,500 kilometers of coastline, more than 300 coastal barangays, and tens of thousands of fisherfolks and aquaculture workers,” Solidum pointed out. 

Solidum said that fisheries and coastal tourism are key economic drivers. In Region VII, the fisheries sector contributed an estimated ₱12.5 billion to regional gross value added (RGVA).

He also added that the Tañon Strait, which lies between Cebu and Negros Oriental, is the largest marine protected area in the Philippines, spanning about 521,000 hectares, rich in biodiversity and home to 14 species of marine mammals.

These resources, according to Solidum, are highly vulnerable to climate change, coastal erosion, marine pollution, and overfishing. Data from DOST-PAGASA and DOST-PHIVOLCS show that extreme weather events and sea level rise continue to threaten the coastal communities in Bohol, Siquijor, and southern Cebu.

Advancing the Central Visayas Blue Economy Agenda

In order to address these concerns, the DOST Region VII and the Visayas Cluster are working on advancing the Central Visayas Blue Economy Agenda, which is anchored on inclusive, data-driven, and scalable solutions.

In his speech, Solidum outlined key strategic directions aimed at building a resilient and regenerative Blue Economy.

Among these is the implementation of Integrated Coastal Resource Management through the X-FACE Project, which leverages smart sensors, Geographic Information System or GIS mapping, and participatory monitoring to enhance disaster risk reduction, biodiversity protection, and resource planning.

Another key priority is the strengthening of food value chains, with a focus on smart aquaculture practices and cold chain innovations. Climate-smart communities are also being developed through early warning systems, marine weather forecasting, and seismic hazard mitigation.

Lastly, technology-enabled eco-tourism, sustainable seaweed farming, and community-driven marine biotechnology innovations are being actively promoted—all underpinned by science and innovation as the guiding compass toward a more resilient, regenerative, and equitable Blue Economy.

Techs to be featured at the 2025 RSTW celebration in Central Visayas

The Regional S&T Festivities at Ayala Malls Central Bloc, Cebu City, will run until April 25, 2025. The three-day celebration showcases various technologies and products developed from the research and development (R&D) efforts of DOST agencies and partner institutions, focusing on marine biodiversity and aquatic resources. These innovations have the potential to provide more livelihood and career opportunities, especially in the provinces of Central Visayas.

There are technology forums aligned to the theme “Agham, Teknolohiya, at Inobasyon: Kabalikat sa Matatag, Maginhawa, at Panatag na Kinabukasan and with the sub-theme “Science, Technology and Innovation for a Smart and Sustainable Central Visayas Blue Economy” scheduled for the three-day activities.

These events feature Science Connect, a platform that brings together diverse sectors to showcase Central Visayas' thriving innovation ecosystems and foster meaningful dialogue. From the FISH Visayas Forum on the blue economy to insightful discussions on AI, drone technology, and food value chains, DOST VII and its partner institutions aim to share with local participants how the scientific community can address urgent challenges with forward-thinking, science-based solutions.

The youth also take the spotlight through the Scholars' Olympiad, Techno Salida Film Competition, and the CV Youth Science Festival—showcasing the deep-rooted passion for science in the region.

For more information on all activities of the RSTW celebration in Central Visayas, you may send your queries to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..