Being a geographically isolated island, Romblon faces major challenges in digital connectivity, transportation and mobility, access to basic services, and even disaster risk and early warning.
Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr. said these realities make the province not just a beneficiary of innovation, but an important proof of concept for science and technology, demonstrating its benefits and values to the public.
To bring science-based interventions closer to island communities, this year's celebration of the Regional Science, Technology and Innovation Week (RSTW) in MIMAROPA introduced various technologies to push Romblon to become a smart island.
"In many places, development is often measured by roads, bridges, robots, and industries. But in an archipelagic region like MIMAROPA, it must also be measured by how well we connect communities separated by seas, bring opportunities to geographically isolated areas, and ensure that every Filipino can benefit from science, technology, and innovation," Solidum said.
Among the technologies launched are TRIPSY and SEAWAVeS.
TRIPSY is a smart tricycle booking app adopted and deployed by the local government of Odiongan to improve local mobility within the municipality. Envisioned for province-wide expansion, the app will feature tour bookings and local attraction guides, fostering tourism and sparking local economic growth.
Moreover, coastal communities, businesses, and maritime activities in Romblon face unpredictable risks every day. Limited tools, late warnings, and costly technologies put lives, assets, and operations at risk.
To address these challenges, the DOST turned over SEAWAVeS, or the Sea-condition Emergency Alert Warning Apparatus for Vessel Safety.
Developed by researchers of Aklan State University and funded by DOST-Philippine Council for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development, this technology aims to provide real-time monitoring of small watercraft using the General Packet Radio Service network.
"We need to be smarter in the way we will approach the development of our communities. We need to find out the most important challenge that they face. Their expressed need, not the perceived need. And make sure that we prioritize the most important, given the funds that are given to all of us," Solidum added.
The science chief said DOST's goal is to help communities pursue development that is innovative, inclusive, responsible, and can last beyond a single project, administration, or generation.
In MIMAROPA, DOST's Smart and Sustainable Communities program has mobilized more than Php71 million in assistance for smart technologies, renewable energy, water systems, education, health, disaster preparedness, and agri-aqua development, according to Solidum.
He said the program has also produced five Smart and Sustainable Community Roadmaps and strengthened the capacities of 18 local government units, giving them a clearer framework for integrating science, technology, and innovation into long-term development plans.
"Essentially, sometimes we think that to be a smart community, we need a lot of money. Hindi, maraming pwedeng gawin na hindi kailangang masyadong mahal but can be very effective," Solidum said.
Solidum also emphasized that assistance to Romblon can be strengthened by linking the province and universities with national and international partners.
About RSTW
The Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (RSTW) is an annual event organized by the DOST regional offices across 17 regions. This celebration showcases local technologies, research and development (R&D) projects, and innovative initiatives that connect communities, local industries, and stakeholders with science-based solutions. These efforts promote inclusive, sustainable, and resilient development in the region. The RSTW is one of the major scientific events leading up to the National Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (NSTW) celebration, which will be held in General Santos City in November. For more information, visit www.dost.gov.ph or the National Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (NSTW) Facebook page.
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