Janiuay, Iloilo–The Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST), in collaboration with De La Salle University (DLSU) J. Robredo Institute of Governance, successfully concluded the three-day seminar-workshop “Shaping Inclusive Futures: An Action Plan for ISUFST’s SDG Policy Center” on December 28, 2024, at Damires Hills Tierra Verde Leisure Farm.
The final day featured Fulbright Visiting Scholar Juliene Porciuncula from North Carolina State University, who shared her research entitled “A Recipe for Reclaiming Filipino Food Identity.” The morning sessions also included Prof. Ian Jayson Hecita, who guided participants through “Action Plan Roadmap for Equity: Envisioning a Policy Center for Women and Children.” Prof. Hecita delved into the nuances of creating an inclusive policy framework, emphasizing data-driven decision-making and stakeholder engagement. His facilitation inspired participants to outline strategic priorities for the proposed policy center, ensuring alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Across all three days, discussions provided academic insights and practical approaches to crafting research papers and policy briefs addressing pressing issues such as teenage pregnancy, violence against women and children (VAWC), disaster risk reduction management (DRRM), and online sexual abuse and exploitation of children (OSAEC). Using mainly the Institutional Analysis and Development (IAD) Framework, participants explored data-driven solutions and strategies for effective policy implementation.
Guided by the expertise of governance advocate Dr. Francisco Magno, planning mentor Prof. Eddie Nuque, and research expert Dr. Leonora Angeles of the University of British Columbia (UBC), the workshop concluded with concrete and meaningful steps: publishing impactful research, crafting insightful policy briefs, and preparing for an engaging Policy Forum in March 2025. These initiatives form the foundation for establishing the SDG Policy Center, envisioned as a hub for inclusive governance and sustainable development in Western Visayas and beyond.
“This seminar solidifies ISUFST’s commitment to advancing data-driven and inclusive policies that address local challenges while aligning with global SDG priorities,” said ISUFST President and Program Leader of the Localization of Women and Children’s Policies in Iloilo, Dr. Nordy Siason, Jr.
Project Leader and ISUFST Research and Development Director Dr. Jescel Bito-onon highlighted the activity’s transformative impact: “This workshop is a testament to the power of collaboration in addressing complex societal challenges. The proposed policy center will be a critical platform for translating research into actionable policies that empower communities and safeguard the most vulnerable.”
Once operational, the ISUFST-based SDG Policy Center will focus on developing evidence-based strategies to empower women, protect children, and foster equitable development. Workshop participants committed to contributing research publications and policy recommendations that will guide the center’s future initiatives.
The March 2025 Policy Forum will provide a platform to present these outputs, gather stakeholder input, and catalyze inclusive and sustainable policymaking discussions. (Photos by Warren John Oronan/Text by Herman Lagon/PAMMCO, Published by: Patrick Lance Nacion)
