Cebu coastlines take centerstage in DOST's Blue Economy Agenda

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CEBU’S coastlines, once seen only for their beauty, are now central to an ambitious economic transformation.

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) officially launched the Central Visayas Blue Economy Agenda on April 23, at Ayala Malls Central Bloc in Cebu City, marking a shift toward science-based, climate-smart strategies that aim to tap into the region’s vast marine resources.

“With its rich marine biodiversity, vibrant fisheries, and critical ecosystems, Central Visayas is at the heart of the archipelago, and now taking the lead in developing a science, technology, and innovation-driven Blue Economy that is resilient, inclusive, and climate-smart,” said DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr. during the opening of the 2025 Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (RSTW).

The agenda outlines strategic directions in intelligent aquaculture, sustainable coastal tourism, ocean-based biotechnology, and marine transport.

Among the key components is the X-FACE Project, which applies smart sensors and GIS mapping to improve disaster preparedness, biodiversity protection, and coastal resource planning.

Solidum noted that Region VII’s fisheries sector added P12.5 billion to the regional gross value added, and that marine resource like the 521,000-hectare Tañon Strait, which, for him, are vital yet vulnerable assets.

“Science is not just about tools, but it’s about creating opportunities and building resilient futures,” he said.

He identified plastic pollution as the most urgent threat to the Blue Economy and said DOST is addressing it through technology and nature-based waste management systems.

The maritime transport sector is also being improved with more efficient, safer vessel designs.

The Blue Economy is part of eight flagship DOST projects and is proposal-driven, targeting areas that depend on coastal and marine ecosystems.

Solidum also stressed the need for inclusive, data-driven, and scalable solutions in addressing climate impacts in coastal communities, particularly in Bohol, Siquijor, and southern Cebu.

Dr. Tristan Abando, DOST 7 officer-in-charge, said the three-day RSTW highlights collaborative innovations that reflect the region’s growth.

“The Visayas are not divided by bodies of water; we are actually developed because of it,” he said.

The science week celebration runs until April 25, with forums on food value chains, artificial intelligence, drone technology, and blue economy innovations.

It also features youth competitions like the Scholars’ Olympiad and Techno Salida Film Competition, along with the CV Youth Science Festival, reinforcing the region’s investment in future scientists and innovators.(MyTVCebu)