The Provincial Government of Iloilo led by Gov. Arthur R. Defensor, Jr. continues to advance its economic transformation agenda following a strategic business meeting with the KVG firm represented by President Elisha Abbott and General Counsel Atty. Knicole Feliciano, and Ackerman Consulting led by President and CEO David Ackerman on April 20, 2026 at Seda Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.
The engagement was initiated following KVG’s expressed interest, through Consul Ackerman, to explore potential collaboration with the IPG, particularly in strengthening economic and technology-driven initiatives.
Key areas discussed include drone technology applications and the KVG AUS Forge Program. The meeting convened key department heads and technical representatives from the province, to assess alignment with Iloilo’s development priorities and identify areas for cooperation.
Discussions were anchored on Iloilo’s strategic direction to maximize agricultural production, strengthen value chains, and accelerate the development of ICT and light industries as key drivers of inclusive and sustainable growth.
The province highlighted its priority investment areas, particularly the development of an integrated agricultural value chain ecosystem aimed at increasing productivity, enhancing farmer incomes, and generating employment across rural communities.
Drone technology was identified as a potential enabler in agriculture, with applications in crop monitoring, precision farming, and data-driven resource management. These innovations are seen to complement ongoing efforts to expand agri-based enterprises and agricultural tourism, further strengthening local economic development.
At the same time, the province is advancing the development of strategic growth areas that will serve as investment centers for ICT-enabled services and light industries. The introduction of drone-related technologies, alongside programs such as the KVG AUS Forge Program, presents opportunities for skills development, technical services, and potential assembly and manufacturing activities.
The KVG AUS Forge Program outlines a framework for a technology-driven ecosystem integrating training, innovation, and industry applications, with relevance to agriculture, public services, and emerging industries. Broader applications of drone technology were also noted, including disaster risk reduction, infrastructure monitoring, and environmental assessment.
The engagement reflects Iloilo’s proactive approach in forging strategic partnerships that support its long-term vision of a resilient, progressive, and globally competitive province. Further technical discussions and evaluations are expected to determine viable areas of cooperation.
Via | Office of the Provincial LEDIP Officer - Iloilo
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