Manila, Philippines | Anieluz Pastolero: The implementation of the second phase of the SEA-PLM project, SEA-PLM 2024, is timely and on track to achieve its objective across all project outputs within the three programme pillars, according to the SEA-PLM Project Manager Alejandro Sinon Ibanez.

During the 3rd Project Steering Committee held on 03 February 2023 at SEDA Hotel, Bonifacio Global City, Metro Manila, Mr. Ibanez said that based on the achievements and milestones of the project's first year of implementation, the progress of the different activities across the participating countries is very encouraging. He also mentioned that the project is at the crucial stage of its preparation for the second round of assessment, specifically on the Field Trial operations in 2023.

Present in the meeting, which was conducted in parallel with the 13th Regional Steering Committee Meeting, was Dr Ethel Agnes Pascua-Valenzuela, SEAMEO Secretariat Director, Mr Anggiet Ariefianto, Programme Manager of AKPMT, and Mr Alejandro Sinon Ibanez and Mr Antoine Marivin of the SEA-PLM Secretariat.

Dr. Valenzuela and Mr. Ariefianto emphasized the importance of the meeting as it ensures that the project is on track.

Mr. Ariefianto expressed support of the AKPMT in providing strategic guidance to ensure the smooth conduct of the project implementation. He also provided advice in strictly complying with the existing guidelines of AKCF and responding to any changes to adapt with the current situations and evolving realities given complexities of post-Covid 19.

The Committee also discussed potential challenges and strategic approaches to ensure the project’s success such as building new partnership agreements with current stakeholders, accommodating changes both at the regional and national level, and utilizing regional initiatives to create platforms for strong collaboration with participating countries and other key partners.

The next Steering Committee Meeting was proposed to be organised within the year.