THE Regional Research, Development, and Innovation Committee-1 (RRDIC-1), a committee of the Regional Development Council (RDC), has signed a strategic memorandum of understanding (MOU) with RTI International, implementing the US-Philippines partnership for Skills, Innovation, and Lifelong Learning (Upskill) program.

With funding from the United States Agency for International Development (USAid), Upskill collaborates with the Department of Science and Technology (DoST) to bridge the gap between technology innovation and commercialization, aligning these efforts with national development priorities.

The event, held at BakersPH in Laoag City, marked a significant step in advancing higher education and workforce development not only in the Ilocos Region but as part of a broader effort across the Philippines.

Spearheaded by DoST-1, RRDIC-1 is committed to ensuring that regional innovation projects contribute to socioeconomic growth, with the Ilocos Region positioned as a model for adopting new technologies.

USAid Philippines Deputy Mission Director Rebekah Eubanks noted that the MOU is a step in the right direction.

"Regional development is key to making an impact because it brings solutions rapidly to the communities that need them. Combining national policy with hands-on work in the field ensures that innovation takes place where it matters most," said Eubanks, while reaffirming the US government's commitment to strengthening higher education in the Philippines.

Further, Richard Abendan, PhD, chief of party for the Upskill program, highlighted RRDIC-1's pivotal role in supporting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) within Ilocos Norte as a template for national expansion.

"The RRDIC, led by DoST-1, has already provided valuable support to MSMEs, like BakersPH, demonstrating the success of USAid's locally led development model," Abendan said.

For her part, DoST-1 Regional Director and RRDIC-1 Chairman Teresita Tabaog, PhD, expressed gratitude and described the event as a help coming from a big brother.

She also called for future initiatives to focus on cultivating skills while supporting the welfare of workers for inclusive and sustainable progress.