In line with the implementation of the Artificial Intelligence Regional Development Action Plan (AI RDAP) 2025–2030, the Regional Research, Development, and Innovation Committee (RRDIC) of the Regional Development Council (RDC) VI conducted a two-day Artificial Intelligence Research and Development (AI R&D) Project Proposal Workshop on March 3–4, 2026.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Department of Science and Technology Western Visayas (DOST VI), aimed to guide and refine collaborative AI-focused research, development, and innovation (RDI) project proposals aligned with the region’s priority AI themes and focus areas. The activity also ensured that proposed initiatives support broader national development priorities.
The workshop forms part of the Research and Development component of the AI RDAP, which seeks to increase both the number and quality of AI-related RDI initiatives in Western Visayas. A key focus of the program is strengthening collaboration among academic institutions, government agencies, and industry stakeholders to generate high-impact and solution-oriented AI projects that directly respond to regional development needs.
By the end of the workshop, participating state universities (SUs) were able to develop collaborative AI R&D project proposals reflecting consolidated regional priorities and shared institutional commitments.
In his message, Engr. Rowen R. Gelonga, CESO II, Regional Director of DOST Western Visayas, emphasized the importance of aligning AI initiatives with the distinct expertise, research strengths, and niche areas of each state university. He encouraged institutions to leverage their competencies to develop focused and high-impact AI research projects that address regional challenges while contributing to the broader AI agenda of Western Visayas.
Serving as the key resource speaker was Dr. Maria Liane L. Gayomali, Regional Director of the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Region VI, who provided guidance on proposal development, funding requirements, and alignment with national budgeting and investment priorities. The project proposals developed during the workshop are expected to be submitted to the DBM for possible funding support.
Beyond proposal development, the activity also sought to enhance institutional readiness of state universities in undertaking AI research initiatives and strengthen coordination among the RRDIC, DOST, state universities, and DBM in advancing the region’s AI agenda.
During the workshop, participating institutions collectively identified the Blue Economy as the overarching theme for the AI R&D proposals. Within this framework, priority areas include the application of AI in ocean health, aquaculture, and tourism, recognizing Western Visayas’ strong reliance on marine and coastal resources.
These thematic directions aim to harness AI technologies to support sustainable fisheries and aquaculture management, improve monitoring and protection of marine ecosystems, and enhance tourism planning and services in coastal and island destinations across the region.
Through sustained and strategic AI research initiatives, RRDIC VI aims to position Western Visayas as a leading regional hub for Artificial Intelligence innovation and application, supporting long-term socioeconomic growth and sustainable regional development.
The workshop was attended by top officials and researchers from Aklan State University (ASU), Capiz State University (CapSU), Guimaras State University (GSU), Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST), Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISATU), Northern Iloilo State University (NISU), University of Antique (UA), and West Visayas State University (WVSU).
(CT Gaugano / RDIMS)
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