The Iloilo Provincial Government is proposing the establishment of “TechnoHubs” across the province to equip Ilonggos with future-ready skills while creating opportunities for innovation, employment, and investment.
Governor Arthur Defensor Jr. said the proposed project will serve as a training venue for drone technology, 3D printing, and artificial intelligence (AI).
He added that the proposed facility could also become a platform for collaboration between the provincial government and institutions with expertise in advanced technologies, including the Philippine Air Force, particularly in capability-building and technology applications for disaster response, public safety, and community development.
The TechnoHub initiative was among the key educational programs discussed during a courtesy visit by officials of the Department of Education Schools Division of Iloilo wherein the first facility is said to break ground in the town of Cabatuan.
The provincial government is also partnering with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) to establish and strengthen training programs in drone technology and 3D printing as part of its efforts to position Iloilo as a strategic hub for the drone industry.
Speaking during his meeting with TESDA Secretary Jose Francisco “Kiko” Benitez, Defensor said, “We have identified skills development, particularly in drone technology and application, as a platform to equip our people with future-ready competencies.”
“These skills hold significant potential across various sectors including agriculture, fisheries, disaster risk reduction and management, environmental protection, and other areas of public service,” he added.
Meanwhile, Provincial Administrator Dr. Raul N. Banias, in an interview, said the ‘TechnoHubs’ will be school-based because the provincial government is looking at utilizing its Special Education Fund to operate the facilities, with students serving as the primary beneficiaries to build human capital and develop their capacity in future technologies.
Instead of establishing a single central facility, Banias told IMT NEWS that the provincial government envisions setting up one TechnoHub in every congressional district.
“If we can attract private investors to invest here in drone parts manufacturing, imagine the industry that we can create,” he said. Pia Maleriado, WVSU-COC intern/IMT
