Science, technology, and innovation must become central drivers of the Philippines’ long-term economic transformation and efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, according to the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development.
Speaking at the 48th Annual Scientific Meeting of the National Academy of Science and Technology, DEPDev Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan said innovation should be embedded in policymaking to help the country confront development challenges, raise productivity, and sustain inclusive economic growth.
“Science is not separate from development. Innovation is not an optional complement to policy. Rather, they are increasingly becoming the principal means through which countries solve complex development problems, strengthen resilience, and sustain long-term prosperity,” Balisacan said.
While the Philippines has posted significant gains in recent years, Balisacan stressed that economic growth alone would not be enough to fulfill the country’s development aspirations and commitments under the SDGs.
The SDGs are part of the global development agenda adopted by United Nations member states in 2015 to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure peace and prosperity for all by 2030.
“Achieving the SDGs requires a broader development strategy—one grounded in sound public policy, capable institutions, and strong partnerships among government, the private sector, the academe, and civil society. Most importantly, it requires science, technology, and innovation—not as ends in themselves, but as the means by which we translate sound policy into higher productivity, stronger institutions, greater opportunities, and better lives for our people,” Balisacan said.
The DEPDev chief also underscored the role of institutions such as NAST in ensuring that government policies are informed by scientific evidence and that research and innovation are directed toward addressing real-world problems faced by communities.
Balisacan reaffirmed DEPDev’s commitment to strengthening the country’s innovation ecosystem, increasing investments in research and development, supporting scientists and researchers, and promoting sustainable and resource-efficient innovations.
“As we look toward 2030 and beyond, our challenge is therefore not simply to generate more knowledge. It is to ensure that knowledge is translated more quickly into practical solutions, productive enterprises, effective public policies, and better lives for every Filipino,” Balisacan said.