In an exciting development for the agricultural and aquatic sector in the Philippines, the Regional Agri-Aqua Innovation System Enhancement (RAISE) Program Batch 2 was officially launched during the inception meeting on October 2, 2023, at the Central Luzon State University (CLSU). The program aims to revolutionize the industry and promote sustainable growth in the country. This event marked the beginning of a transformative journey that brings together innovation advocates from across the nation.

The RAISE Program’s primary objective is to enhance the agricultural and aquatic sector in the region while strengthening intellectual property security, valuation, transfer and commercialization. The implementation of an innovative system seeks to facilitate the protection of research and development outputs, especially those of cutting-edge technologies, and ultimately foster sustainable and inclusive growth for the country.

The inception meeting was attended by more than 90 program/project leaders. Meanwhile, around 140 participants joined the meeting virtually, the program’s inception meeting was a momentous gathering. Representatives from regions including Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, Central Visayas, Eastern Visayas, Western Mindanao, Northern Mindanao, SOCCSKSARGEN, and Caraga converged to discuss the program’s vision and goals.

Notable figures present at the event included Dr. Edgar A. Orden- President of CLSU, Dr. Melvin B. Carlos- DOST-PCAARRD Deputy Executive Director for OED-ARMSS, and Dir. Noel A. Catibog, Head of TTPD-PCAARRD, among other PCAARRD officials.

RAISE- Western Mindanao was well-represented at the meeting by the Program Team Dr. Reynante E. Autida, along with Engr. Arvic S. Francisco (WMSU), Asso. Prof. Gladess A. Pagal (WMSU), Mr. Rey Ralph Virtucio (WMSU), Asst. Prof. Rickler R. Detalla (JHCSC), Asso. Prof. Yhebron J. Lagud (JRMSU), Engr. Evangeline P. Garcia (PRRI), and Dr. Maila V. Pan (ZSCMST). Dr. Autida will take charge as the Program Leader for the RAISE- Western Mindanao while concurrently overseeing a component project for the Regional Agri-Aqua Technology Business Incubator (ATBI) Project. During the meeting, he presented the Regional ATBI Target Outputs, outlining major plans and activities for the first two quarters of the project.

The RAISE Program in Western Mindanao comprises four projects, with four subcomponent projects from different CMIs. These projects are as follows:

• Project 1: Regional Intellectual Property and Technology Business Management (IPTBM) in Western Mindanao through the RAISE program- Project Leader: Engr. Arvic S. Francisco

• Project 1A: Establishment of IPTBM in J.H. Cerilles State College through the RAISE program-  Project Leader: Asst. Prof. Rickler R. Detalla

• Project 1B: Establishment of IPTBM in Jose Rizal Memorial State University through the RAISE program-  Project Leader: Asso. Prof. Yhebron J. Lagud
• Project 1C: Establishment of IPTBM in Philippine Rubber Research Institute through the RAISE program- Project Leader: Engr. Evangeline P. Garcia
• Project 1D: Establishment of IPTBM in Zamboanga State College of Marine Sciences and Technology through the RAISE program- Project Leader: Dr. Maila V. Pan

• Project 2: Establishment of Regional Agri-business Hub (ABH) in Western Mindanao through the RAISE program – Project Leader: Asso. Prof. Gladess A. Pagal
• Project 3: Regional Agri-Aqua Technology Business Incubator (ATBI) in Western Mindanao through the RAISE program- Project Leader: Dr. Reynante E. Autida
• Project 4: Establishment of Regional Knowledge Management (KM) Hub in Western Mindanao through the RAISE program- Project Leader: Mr. Rey Ralph Virtucio

The RAISE Program in Western Mindanao has a total approved budget of 25,246,080.00 pesos, generously funded by DOST-PCAARRD with counterpart funding from the implementing agencies. This substantial investment reflects the government’s commitment to advancing innovation in the agri-aqua sector, recognizing its pivotal role in the nation’s development.

The DOST-PCAARRD team demonstrated an unwavering dedication to pushing the limits of innovation in the agri-aqua sector. Throughout the meeting, their combined knowledge and commitment sparked lively discussions that forged a path for a planned course of action.

As the RAISE Program gains momentum, it holds the promise of not only elevating the agricultural and aquatic sector but also contributing significantly to the Philippines’ journey towards sustainable and inclusive growth. With collaboration, innovation, and dedicated leadership, the program is set to make a lasting impact on the nation’s economic landscape.

We extend our sincere appreciation to the heads of various agencies whose invaluable support and approval have made the RAISE Program in Western Mindanao a reality. Dr. Ma. Carla A. Ochotorena (WMSU), Dr. Nelson P. Cabral (JRMSU), Dr. Edgardo H. Rosales (JHCSC), Dr. Cheryl L. Eusala (PRRI), and Dr. Jaime G. Halon (ZCSMST) have shown unwavering commitment to fostering innovation and sustainable growth in the agricultural and aquatic sector. Your leadership paves the way for transformative change, and we are grateful for your dedication to this vital endeavor.

(Photo Courtesy of CLSU)