By Mikee Natinga Norico
Strengthening Partnerships for Innovation: From left to right, Dr. Carmelo V. Ambut, Dr. Gabriel Salistre Jr., Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy, and Engr. Gelvie Lagos, joined by other key stakeholders, pose for a group photo during the MOA signing. Photo Credits to CPUGAD TBI Facebook Page.
On January 17, 2025, the CPUGAD Technology Business Incubator (TBI) of Central Philippine University (CPU) marked a milestone in innovation by officially joining the Unified Movement in Western Visayas to Accelerate Startups and Spin-offs Development (UMWAD). The ceremonial signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) took place at the CPU Administration Conference Room, symbolizing CPUGAD TBI’s commitment to nurturing the regional startup ecosystem.
The agreement was signed by University President Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy and ISAT-U President Dr. Gabriel Salistre, Jr. Witnessing the signing were Dr. Carmelo V. Ambut, Executive Director of UMWAD, and Engr. Gelvie Lagos, Project Leader of DOST-CPU CPUGAD TBI. Mark Gil D. Peraman, General Manager of CPUGAD TBI, provided an overview of the agreement, emphasizing its goal of establishing partnerships that provide critical support to startups and spin-offs, including mentorship, training programs, and business-matching opportunities.
The ceremonial signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on January 17, 2025, marking CPUGAD Technology Business Incubator’s (TBI) official inclusion in the UMWAD consortium for startup and spin-off development in Western Visayas. Photo Credits to UMWAD Western Visayas Facebook Page.
In his message, Dr. Ambut highlighted the consortium’s vision, stating, “This agreement underscores our unified vision of cultivating a vibrant startup ecosystem in Western Visayas.”
Meanwhile, Dr. Salistre reflected on UMWAD’s origins and aspirations, saying, “UMWAD originated through a project; now it’s a consortium. We’re looking forward to these small endeavors manifesting and helping us achieve our goals.”
CPU President Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy underscored the importance of collaboration in today’s academic landscape. “We cannot do this on our own. Gone are the days when universities used to compete. With this partnership, I pray that we can do more things together,” he stated.
UMWAD, together with KWADRA TBI and CPUGAD TBI, operates with support from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), particularly through the Philippine Council for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development (PCIEERD) and DOST Regional Office VI.
This partnership marks the beginning of a new chapter for startups in Western Visayas, as CPUGAD TBI and UMWAD join forces to drive innovation and entrepreneurship in the region.