27-28 OCTOBER 2026

The University Business Affairs (UBA) Office hosted the IGP Convergence 2026, gathering income-generating project (IGP) managers and representatives from state universities and colleges (SUCs) across the Philippines to strengthen partnerships and advance sustainable enterprise development. The event was held at the CHET Function Hall.

In his opening remarks, VP for Business Affairs Josel M. Florentin emphasized that university business affairs go beyond managing budgets and financial resources. He described income generators as contributors to institutional sustainability and stressed the importance of collaboration among SUCs in developing innovative and environmentally responsible enterprises.

“No campus can do this alone,” Florentin said, underscoring the value of sharing resources, experiences, methods, and lessons learned among institutions.

He added that university enterprises should evolve in response to changing educational needs and community priorities. Through partnerships and innovation, IGPs can develop products and services that generate revenue while protecting natural resources.

Meanwhile, BSU President Kenneth A. Laruan welcomed the delegates and discussed the importance of IGPs amid limited government funding for state universities and colleges.

He emphasized the role of university enterprises in transforming the expertise of faculty members and employees into economic value. Through business operations, research outputs can be commercialized and made available to stakeholders rather than remaining solely as academic publications.

Laruan also encouraged participating institutions to strengthen collaboration in research and development, academic initiatives, and business operations. He invited the delegates to explore the BSU campus and exchange ideas to support the development of their respective enterprises.

The convergence featured three learning sessions addressing key aspects of university enterprise development.

VP for Administration and Finance Richard H. Kinnud led Learning Session 1, titled “Procurement-Related Challenges and Opportunities for IGPs.”

Learning Session 2, titled “Developing IGPs towards Green Enterprises,” was facilitated by Allan C. Sacpa, Pollution Control Officer (PCO) head, and Aldrin Baniaga, PCO for UBA. Meanwhile, Cynthia Garambas, director of the Intellectual Property Management Office (IPMO), led Learning Session 3, titled “Intellectual Property Protection for IGPs.”

The first day also included IGP fellowship and socialization featuring a garments fashion show and a Sinagtala performance.

Day two began with unity Zumba session for all delegates, followed by the continuation of the program at the Function Hall. The morning session featured a recap of Day 1, presentation of Income Generating Projects, sharing of best practices, and collaborative discussions among the SUCs.

Business and Development Services Director Dalifer A. Gano delivered the closing remarks, expressing gratitude to the participants and encouraging stronger institutional networks among the participants.

In the afternoon, delegates toured the University’s IGP and research centers, including the Bakery, Food Processing Center, Garments Project, Marketing Center, Agri-based Technology Business Incubator/Innovation Center, Food Science Research Innovation Center, Strawberry Farms, and the Institute of Highland Farming Systems and Agroforestry.//NSudaypan & EBawayan