BY GEROME DALIPE IV
ILOILO City – Aspiring entrepreneurs gathered in the metropolis yesterday for the first-ever Startup Festival, a four-day event promoting innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship. The festival attracted startup enthusiasts, innovators, and investors, providing a platform for collaboration and learning.
In his speech, Mayor Jerry Treñas welcomed the participants to the festival as he was looking forward to the aspirants showcasing their innovative ideas, connecting with potential investors, and engaging with a community that champions growth and creativity.
“The festival serves as a testament to our unwavering commitment to fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship. Through this festival, we aim to propel the digital economy of our region to even greater heights,” said Treñas.
He also expressed his gratitude to the festival’s partners, which include the academe, various government agencies, and other stakeholders in this commendable initiative.
“Together, let us continue our collaborative work to support and inspire the brilliant minds leading the way in shaping the future of Western Visayas and pave the way for progress and prosperity for generations to come,” the mayor stressed.
The four-day Startup Festival, organized by Innovate Iloilo and UMWAD Western Visayas, will run from Sept. 24 to 27 at Diversion 21 Hotel in Mandurriao district.
More than 20 organizations, including government agencies, academic institutions, and private sector partners are participating in the event.
These include the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) VI, Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines, Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI)-Iloilo, Innovate Iloilo, UMWAD Western Visayas, Kwadra TBI, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) VI, and Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) VI.
During the recent press briefing, Dr. Carmelo Ambut, Head of UMWAD Western Visayas Consortium, underscored the need to develop a strong startup ecosystem.
Ambut pointed out the objective of the festival is to establish Iloilo and Western Visayas as the premier innovation hub in the Philippines by 2030.
The organizers voiced optimism that the festival will attract attention from major tech companies and position Western Visayas as part of the global startup ecosystem.
“We’re opening doors for potential investors, including guests from Australia who will be checking our facilities and startup communities,” Francis Gerona of PCCI-Iloilo said.
Velma Jane Lao, the city’s Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion Office (Ledipo) head, said they would propose to the council the amendments to startup ordinances and incentives, seed grant funding, intellectual property protection, opportunities in the creative industry, and collaborative research and development./PN
