The Visayas Policy Research Forum (VPRF) 2026 brought together policymakers, researchers, and local development stakeholders to discuss key issues affecting the Visayas and explore evidence-based policy solutions aligned with the 2026 Development Policy Research Month (DPRM) theme, “Building Strong Institutions, Unlocking Human Capital Potential” on September 22 at Sam’s 21 Hotel, Mandurriao, Iloilo City.
Dr. Philip Arnold P. Tuaño, President of the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS), in his opening message, highlighted that developing people and strengthening institutions must go hand in hand. He also underscored the importance of institutions that enable people to develop and effectively use their knowledge, skills, and capabilities.
In his keynote address, Engr. Arecio A. Casing, Jr., CESO III, Regional Director of Department of Economy, Planning, and Development Region (DEPDev) VI, emphasized the importance of aligning national and regional actions to deliver the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. He also mentioned that this forum aims to highlight the significant roles of reliable data, research, institutional coordination, and sustained dialogue.
The forum featured research papers presented by Ms. Mary Rose Bañares, faculty member of the University of the Philippines Visayas (UPV) College of Management; Dr. Rhodella Ibabao, faculty member of the UPV College of Management; Dr. Mary Rose Rebueno, faculty member of the UPV College of Management; Ms. Elaine Grace Fernandez, Senior Economic Development Specialist of the Project Monitoring and Evaluation Division of DEPDev VI; Dr. Rosalie Arcala Hall, Executive Director of UP Center for Integrative and Development Studies ( UP CIDS); and Dr. Jhun Cris Espia, faculty member of the UPV College of Arts and Sciences.
The panel discussions highlighted the role of the Regional Development Council (RDC), the monitoring of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the importance of ensuring that data informs planning and policy decisions, as well as institutional barriers, gender mainstreaming, spatial justice and inequality, and infrastructure.
The forum was organized by PIDS through the SERP-P network and in partnership with UPV, UP CIDS, DEPDev VI, and Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Western Visayas.
Written and photos by Mary Arvic Dolendo, IPO
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