SSU, SLSU jointly host the Regional Agri-Aqua Products and Innovation Pitching Competition
Regional Agri-Aqua Products and Innovation Pitching Competition was organized under the RAISE IP-TBM Project in collaboration with Samar State University and Southern Leyte State University, on May 23, 2024, at the SLSU Library-Mini Theater. The event was attended by delegates from various SUCs in Region 8, including Visayas State University, Samar State University, Biliran Province State University, Eastern Visayas State University, University of Eastern Philippines, and the host university, Southern Leyte State University.
The competition was honored by the presence of TTPD Assistant Director Ms. Lucy A. Lastimosa and Mr. Michael Angelo Badillo of DOST-PCAARRD. Distinguished panelists included the Samar Provincial Director of the Department of Trade and Industry, Director Meilou C. Macabare, Director of the IP-TBM Office of SSU Dr. Vivian L. Moya, and TTPD Asst. Dir. Ms. Lucy A. Lastimosa.
Southern Leyte State University's Engr. Khorina O. Aguilar won the Best Pitcher Award with her technology “Self-Navigating Solar Powered Aerator”. Visayas State University secured first place with Ms. Mary Rose M. Maniego's technology “Vacuum Fried Sweet Potato”. Biliran Province State University claimed second place with Mr. Eric John D. Celis's technology “Mobile System and Method for Cacao Disease Classification using Convolutional Neural Networks”.
The Regional Agri-Aqua Products and Innovation Pitching Competition was a great success, showcasing the remarkable talent and creativity within Region 8's academic institutions. The event not only celebrated innovation but also emphasized the importance of collaboration and shared goals in advancing the region's agriculture and aquaculture sectors.
As the RAISE IP-TBM Project continues to promote and support such initiatives, the future looks promising for agri-aqua innovation in Region 8. Continued investment in research, technology, and collaboration holds the promise of transforming local communities and contributing to sustainable development in the Philippines.
