ISUFST, DLSU Push Inclusive Policies at SDG Workshop

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The Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) and De La Salle University (DLSU) J. Robredo Institute of Governance concluded the three-day workshop “Shaping Inclusive Futures: An Action Plan for ISUFST’s SDG Policy Center” on December 28, 2024, at Damires Hills Tierra Verde Leisure Farm in Janiuay, Iloilo.

The event featured key experts, including Fulbright Visiting Scholar Juliene Porciuncula, who presented her research titled “A Recipe for Reclaiming Filipino Food Identity.”

Prof. Ian Jayson Hecita led a session on creating an inclusive policy framework, emphasizing data-driven decision-making and stakeholder engagement in his presentation, “Action Plan Roadmap for Equity: Envisioning a Policy Center for Women and Children.”

Participants outlined strategic priorities for a proposed policy center, aligning their efforts with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to address 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 the Institutional Analysis and Development (IAD) Framework, discussions focused on crafting research papers and policy briefs aimed at providing actionable solutions for these challenges.

Governance advocate Dr. Francisco Magno, planning mentor Prof. Eddie Nuque, and research expert Dr. Leonora Angeles of the University of British Columbia guided participants in developing evidence-based outputs.

The workshop concluded with commitments to publish impactful research, craft policy briefs, and prepare for a Policy Forum in March 2025. These efforts aim to establish the SDG Policy Center as a hub for inclusive governance and sustainable development in Western Visayas.

“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 Dr. Nordy Siason, Jr.

Project Leader and Research and Development Director Dr. Jescel Bito-onon emphasized the transformative potential of the initiative.

“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,” she said.

The planned ISUFST-based SDG Policy Center will focus on empowering women, protecting children, and fostering equitable development through research-driven strategies.

The March 2025 Policy Forum will present workshop outputs, gather stakeholder input, and advance discussions on inclusive and sustainable policymaking. (Photos by Warren John Oronan/Text by Herman Lagon/PAMMCO)