Iloilo City: Experts gathered in Iloilo City on Tuesday for the two-day 2025 Visayas Regional Scientific Meeting (RSM) to discuss relevant and timely regional concerns and present science, technology, and innovation-based recommendations.

According to Philippines News Agency, the regional scientific meetings are significant for collecting insights, opinions, and strategies from the region concerning bio-entrepreneurship and establishing a sustainable and viable bio-enterprise system in the Philippines. Jaime Montoya, president of the National Academy of Science and Technology Philippines (NAST PHL), emphasized the importance of real-world experiences during a press conference.

Engr. Rowen Gelonga, regional director of the Department of Science and Technology in Western Visayas, highlighted the focus of this year's RSM on harnessing biodiversity, aquatic agriculture, and natural resources. He stressed the role of science, technology, and innovation in contributing to the country's wealth. Despite the country's rich biodiversity and natural resources, Gelonga noted that agriculture, fishery, and resources are currently the third and lowest contributors to the country's GDP.

The RSM aims to explore ways to utilize the expertise of scientists and researchers to enhance the productivity and economic contribution of these sectors. The meeting, also to be held in Luzon and Mindanao clusters, serves as a platform for collaboration, networking, and a call to action in leveraging bioscience innovations for inclusive growth, environmental sustainability, and collective progress.

The regional and annual scientific meetings, led by NAST PHL and DOST regional offices, carry the theme 'Bioscience Innovations: Transforming Enterprises Ecosystems for Wealth Creations.'