Eighteen participants from various State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) successfully completed the Regional Echo on Agri-Aqua Technology Business Incubation (ATBI) Masterclass and they graduated on June 25, 2026, at the ATBI/IC Hall in La Trinidad, Benguet.
The training equipped participants with knowledge and skills on ATBI concepts, focusing on the preparation of feasibility studies, business plans, and operations manuals for their own ATBIs or proposed ATBIs. Conducted from June 22-25, 2026, the masterclass featured lectures, workshops, and presentations where participating SUCs showcased their proposed ATBI development/enhancement strategies.
The participants were Abra State Institute of Science and Technology (7), Apayao State College (2), Ifugao State University (3), Kalinga State University (3), and Mountain Province State University (3).
The training was led by Ruth C. Diego, Director of BSU-ATBI/IC and Program Leader of the RAISE Program in CAR Phase 2, together with RAISE CAR project staff Cynthia D. Garambas, Richard P. Dumapis, Karen B. Gaerlan, Ana B. Mendoza, and Frevy T. Orencia.
Representing BSU President Kenneth A. Laruan, Maridel Langbis encouraged participants to pursue innovation with purpose, emphasizing that the true measure of success lies in the impact of the ideas they bring to life. Director Noel Catibog of PCAARRD-TTPD likewise congratulated the graduates, recognizing their dedication and readiness to contribute to innovation and entrepreneurship in the agriculture, aquatic, and natural resources sector.
In her closing message, Dr. Diego commended the participants for completing the program requirements and expressed optimism for the continued growth of ATBIs in the Cordilleras. She highlighted the importance of strengthening the region’s innovation ecosystem and encouraged participants to continue serving their institutions and communities through innovation. Conducted as an activity under DOST-PCAARRD-funded CAR RAISE Program Phase 2.// Nylmher Ace, BSDC Intern
