Policy forum showcases green, digital efforts for development

Officials and experts at the 9th Mindanao Policy Research Forum held recently underscored the importance of pursuing green and digital transformation to achieve sustainable and inclusive development for the region.

Centering on the theme "Going Green and Digital for Mindanao's Sustainable and Inclusive Future", the forum was held in celebration of the 21st Development Policy Research Month.

It was organized by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies and the Mindanao Development Authority, in partnership with the Philippine APEC Study Center Network and Xavier University — Ateneo de Cagayan.

In his welcome remarks, Xavier University-Ateneo de Cagayan President Fr. Mars Tan shared the university's commitment to using green and digital engines to pursue development that protects the planet and dignifies humanity.

"Going green is key to a sustainable and inclusive future, but environmental issues must always be as closely interconnected with social, economic, political, and cultural components of a society. Going green cannot be seen and treated as only a single isolated issue or problem in any context," he emphasized.

PIDS president Aniceto Orbeta Jr., who hails from Surigao del Sur, expressed optimism about the twin transition as a key strategy for Mindanao's development journey.

Much to gain

"The people of Mindanao have much to gain from adopting environmentally sustainable and digital solutions. The twin strategy will pave the way for an inclusive and prosperous future for its entire population," he said.

The twin transition—the focus of the 21st DPRM—refers to the interconnected processes of green transition and digital transformation.

In his presentation, PIDS senior research fellow and PASCN project director Francis Mark Quimba explained that "the digital transformation of the economy and society and the shift to a sustainable model of production should be viewed as closely intertwined and simultaneous."

Meanwhile, Keith Detros, program manager of Singapore-based Tech for Good Institute, underscored the role of digital economy companies and micro, small, and medium enterprises in the twin transition.