At the Ion Hotel in Baguio City, the Agri-Aqua Technology Business Incubators (ATBIs) and their mentored incubatees celebrated the 2nd National Agri-Aqua Incubatee Summit. It started off with the unfurling of banners from the participating ATBIs, creating an atmosphere of excitement and anticipation among the attendees. With the theme, “Creating and Growing Agri-Aqua Startups Towards a Vibrant Community,”

Thanks to Benguet State University (BSU) for hosting the activity, The event was graced by the presence of esteemed guests, including the Baguio City Mayor, Hon. Benjamin B. Magalong; Supervising Science Research Specialist, Technology Transfer and Promotion Division, DOST-PCAAŔRD Ms. Lucy A. Lastimosa; and ATBI Program Leader, Dr. Ruth C Diego. They gave warm welcome messages, expressing their support for the event and their admiration for the products on display.

Dr. Reynaldo V. Ebora, DOST-PCAARRD Executive Director, also gave an inspiring message. He encouraged the participants to continue their pursuit of excellence in their respective fields, reminding them of the important role that ATBIs play in the development of the country.

Moreover, ATBI partners, Ms. Cheryl Marie Caballero of Purple Agribusiness, Network, and Trading Services and former Department of Agriculture Undersecretary; Mr. Jerrison Tiong of AUROCHS Aerospace Precision Manufacturing Corporation; Atty. Samuel Gallardo of DTI Baguio-Benguet; Mr. Ricardo Apolinario III of DOST Region IX; and Mr. Michael del Rosario of Giant Arches Food Corporation, shared their experiences in startup creation, sustainability, and recommendations on becoming an investable agri-aqua startup.

The main focus of the activity was the showcasing of different products from ATBIs in various regions. Each ATBIs had their own booth, where they displayed their products and interacted with the attendees. The incubatees themselves were given the opportunity to pitch their products individually, highlighting their unique features and benefits. The products on display were diverse and impressive, ranging from agricultural produce to technological innovations. Attendees were able to sample and purchase the products, as well as engage in meaningful conversations with the ATBI representatives and their incubatees.

Overall, the showcase of the incubatees’ products was a success, not only in terms of promoting their products but also in fostering collaboration and camaraderie among the ATBI. It demonstrated the importance of ATBIs in the development of the country, and highlighted their potential to contribute to the economic growth and prosperity of the Philippines.