The Agri-Aqua Innovation Pitch Fest (AIPF) 2024, held on August 16, 2024 at Royce Hotel, emerged as a vibrant convergence of innovators, investors, and experts in agriculture and aquaculture. The event, themed “Transforming Ideas into Business Realities with Science and Technology,” served as a platform to showcase the latest technological advancements from across the Philippines, with a strong focus on transforming innovative ideas into viable business ventures.

The AIPF 2024 was a testament to the country’s growing commitment to harnessing science and technology for sustainable agricultural and aquatic practices. With 22 presenters representing 14 regions, the event highlighted a wide array of groundbreaking technologies aimed at revolutionizing the agri-aqua industry. Each presentation reflected the creativity and ingenuity of Filipino innovators, all competing for the attention of potential investors and industry experts.

Region IX, known for its rich agricultural and aquatic resources, made a significant impact at the event by showcasing two cutting-edge technologies. Ms. Ruffa Mae Murillo, an alumna of the College of Agriculture, introduced the Night Soil Fertilizer Technology. This innovative approach to sustainable farming captivated the audience with its potential to enhance soil fertility while addressing waste management challenges.

Complementing this was the Seaweed Harvester Technology from Jose Rizal Memorial State University, a solution poised to revolutionize seaweed farming in the region. The RAISE-WesMin team, instrumental in setting up the Region IX booth, ensured that the region’s offerings were presented with utmost professionalism, attracting considerable interest from attendees.

The event was graced by Dr. Renato U. Solidum, Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), whose keynote address underscored the critical role of science and technology in driving economic growth. Dr. Solidum commended the active participation of various agencies and State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) from across the country. He emphasized the importance of turning innovative ideas into tangible outcomes and called for sustained investment in research and development to maintain the momentum of progress.

The pitching competition was a highlight of the event, with 22 presenters competing across three categories: agri-aqua inputs and products, food products, and agricultural-aquatic machinery. Region IX’s presenters performed commendably, showcasing the region’s potential in the highly competitive arena.

In addition to the pitches, a poster contest added to the excitement. Caraga State University (CarSU) claimed the top spot, with the Philippine Carabao Center and Bohol Island State University (BISU) securing second place. Pampanga State Agricultural University (PSAU) rounded out the top three.

The Agri-Aqua Innovation Pitch Fest 2024 not only showcased the best of Filipino ingenuity but also reinforced the importance of collaboration and continued investment in science and technology. As the participants return to their regions, the seeds of innovation planted at the event are expected to grow, driving the future of agriculture and aquaculture in the Philippines.