USTP empowers young technopreneurs at CET Demo Day Pitching Competition

By Randulf C. Doria and Roque P. Bermudez, USTP System STRATCOMM
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The Center for Entrepreneurship and Technology (CET) of the University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines in Cagayan de Oro (USTP CDO) successfully held the Demo Day: CDO Campus Pitching Competition, showcasing the innovative ideas of aspiring technopreneurs on January 31, 2025, at the Performing Arts Theater (PAT), Engineering Building, USTP CDO. The event aims to foster entrepreneurship and technological innovation among students.

Ms. Flora Monica M. Ruiz, Head of the Center for Entrepreneurship and Technology of USTP CDO, opened the event with a statement emphasizing the competition’s goal of empowering students to develop market-driven solutions through technology and innovation.

Dr. Ambrosio B. Cultura II, USTP System President, delivered his welcome address, expressing his strong support for start-up ideas and pitching presentations highlighting the long-term vision of USTP’s Unicorn, producing many start-ups similar to what foreign universities envision. Dr. Cultura emphasized the importance of the student incubation program’s potential in support of USTP’s technopreneurship and entrepreneurial path. 

Dr. Cultura also introduced the establishment of the Science & Technology (S&T) Parks and Innovation Hub – an avenue for pitching competitions. He encouraged students to study and explore this strategic path to help leverage communities, offering more jobs and creating sustainable solutions.

Panel of Judges

A distinguished panel of experts evaluated the participants’ pitches, bringing their extensive knowledge in innovation, research, and industry development:

  • Engr. Bronson G. Mabulay – Founder and Principal Consultant, Systems Innovation Consulting Labs
  • Engr. Jon Michael A. Semilla – Officer-In-Charge, Office of the Research Development and Innovation Unit, Department of Science and Technology – Region 10 (DOST-X)
  • Engr. Eduardo S. Tangunan III – Program Development Officer, Lecturer, and Immediate Past President, CDO Chamber of Industries
Innovative Start-ups Take Center Stage

Six promising teams presented their groundbreaking start-up ideas during the competition:

  • Exquisites
  • Inkswift
  • Vectotab
  • Hydrolight
  • Solutech
  • Pawremiter
Awarding of Winners

After an intense round of pitches and deliberation, the top three teams were announced:  

Champion: Vectotab

Vectotab presented a revolutionary, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly bio-pesticide tablet designed for high efficiency against mosquito larvae. Their innovative and sustainable solution offers an effective approach to mosquito control, ensuring public health and ecological balance.

1st Place: Hydrolight

Hydrolight presented a portable water bottle with a built-in filtration system capable of purifying water while offering hot and cold temperature options. Featuring an advanced filtration system that combines halo fibers and graphene sheets, this innovation provides a cost-effective, sustainable, and enjoyable way to stay hydrated.

2nd Place: Exquisites

Exquisites presented a dust-free, health-friendly liquid chalk marker explicitly designed for teachers. Made from non-toxic, plant-based ingredients, it provides a safer alternative to traditional chalk while incorporating relaxing fragrances to enhance the classroom experience.

The Demo Day: CDO Campus Pitching Competition celebrated innovation and reinforced USTP’s commitment to developing a thriving ecosystem for technopreneurs. The event marks a step towards producing future industry leaders with the skills to transform ideas into impact.