Biliran Province State University, in collaboration with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Biliran, held a project pitching activity for the BiPSU Intellectual Property Office (IPO)-registered technologies and a business matching with potential adopters.

The event, held on November 18 at the university gymnasium, aimed to connect BiPSU's innovative utility models (UMs) with micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and industry producers for potential adoption and commercialization.

In his message, University President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. explained the event is not just an opportunity to showcase the innovations BiPSU has developed and registered under the IPO, but also a proof to the shared dedication of the university and partners to upholding and advancing the university’s vision, mission, and core values.

“Events like this align perfectly with that aspiration as we present BiPSU’s innovative technologies designed to address challenges and create opportunities for sustainable development,” he said.

The morning session featured the presentation of 15 utility models (UMs) developed by BiPSU researchers across three innovation clusters: cosmetics, fragrance, and personal care; processed food and processed fruits and nuts; and technology development, textile and materials, and wearable and homestyle products.

Over 40 MSMEs, representatives from Alto Peak Chocolates, and members of the Biliran Chamber of Commerce and Industry participated, with each UM introduced by its respective proponent to showcase its potential in enhancing industry practices and addressing local market demands. 

Meanwhile, the afternoon session was dedicated to business matching, where MSMEs and industry stakeholders explored collaborations for technology adoption. This activity aligns with DTI’s Shared Service Facilities (SSF) program, which seeks to improve MSME competitiveness by providing access to advanced technology and innovation.

According to DTI-Biliran Provincial Director Dr. Faustino V. Gayas, Jr., by connecting BiPSUs’ intellectual property outputs with business partners, BiPSU and DTI are creating pathways for commercialization, technology adoption, and entrepreneurial growth, and economic development.

“I am confident that we will witness a convergence of ideas, where potential adaptors can explore opportunities to enhance their enterprises while contributing to the wider economic landscape of the Province and [Eastern VIsayas],” Dr. Gayas said.

The trade and industry provincial director also encouraged both the proponents and possible adopters to work together to ensure that the innovations do not remain as concepts but are fully utilized for community development, job creation, and sustainable growth.

Meanwhile, Mr. Noel Barquera, proprietor of the Alto Peak Chocolates, also shared his entrepreneurial journey from starting a small cacao-to-chocolate enterprise in 2019 to establishing Leyte’s first bean-to-bar chocolate factory.

Other attendees of the activity also include Dr. Romeo Dignos, Department of Science and Technology (DOST) provincial director; Mr. Romeo Padulla from the Intellectual Property Rights of the Philippines (IPOPHIL); Mr. Ritchie Curso, president of Biliran Chamber of Commerce and Industry; Dr. Roland Niez, vice president for Research, Innovation, and Extension Services; Dr. Pearl Irish de Paz, director of Research Office; Associate Professor Jeruel Espinazo, director of Innovation and Production Office; and Mr. Marclin Aguilar, director of Food Research and Development Center.

The activity, spearheaded by the Research and Innovation Office, aligns with BiPSU’s vision to be an internationally recognized university responsive to the needs of local and global communities.  

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[This aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure]