Marcos unveils Philippines' path to progress

MANILA (Philippine Daily Inquirer/Asia News Network): President Ferdinand Marcos Jr (pic) on Wednesday (Sept 27) led the launch of the National Innovation Agenda and Strategy Document (NIASD).

Marcos presented the plan in a launching ceremony in the Metropolitan Theater in Manila, together with Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, United States Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson, and Economic Development Chief Arsenio Balisacan.

“Encapsulated within the NIASD is the blueprint that will accelerate the country’s innovation governance as well as promote a culture of innovation among scientists, researchers, entrepreneurs, engineers, and of course, citizens,” said Marcos in his speech.

According to the President, the document represents a commitment to integrate innovation into the national agenda.

“This comprehensive document provides the country’s vision and long-term goals for innovation, serving as a roadmap and strategy guide to improve innovation governance, deepen and accelerate innovation efforts, and foster the integration of public-private partnerships in advancing innovation,” said the National Economic and Development Authority (Neda) in a statement.

The document aligns with Republic Act 11293 or the Philippine Innovation Act. The NIASD was approved by Marcos on June 30, 2023.

According to Neda, the NIASD has plans from 2023 to 2032.

With the theme of “Reshaping the Future, Advancing Filipinnovation,” the event has over 700 guests, including Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa, Neda Chief Arsenio Balisacan, and more.