Mindanao think-tank launched

THE Mindanao Development Authority (Minda), in partnership with the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (Pids), launched the Mindanao Knowledge, Research and Policy Center (MKRPC) during the first Mindanao Policy Research Forum at the Waterfront Insular Hotel on Friday. MKRPC aims to provide evidence-based analysis and advice to government and decision-makers. It will also provide technology, research and development support to Mindanao's key industries. Janet M. Lopoz, undersecretary of Minda, said the center will be a one-stop shop for all researches in Mindanao. "At present, the center will be a virtual center, where one-stop shop for all Mindanao researches will be placed in one database, it is envisioned to be the think-tank for Mindanao embracing the thrusts of Mindanao 2020 research agenda," she said, adding that plans are on hand in putting the center at the planned cultural center to be built in Davao City that was once Davao terminal airport. MKRPC will operate under the Minda together with high education institution members and research entities based in Mindanao. It has four program components composed of database development and management, research and resource mobilization, partnership-build and advocacy and capacity building.//