By Mikee Natinga Norico
Representatives from PackUp, CPUGAD TBI, CPU, DOST VI, the Provincial Government of Iloilo, and the Institute of Packaging Professionals CPU SC, pose for a group photo as part of their manifestation that ‘NOW, is the right time to invest in packaging’ during PackSadya 2025.
On April 7, 2025, the CPUGAD TBI Co-Working Space at Central Philippine University (CPU) became a dynamic hub for entrepreneurship, collaboration, and innovation as PackUp hosted PackSadya 2025—the first startup-led event under the CPUGAD Technology Business Incubator (TBI). This event, part of the opening program of Semana sang Iloilo 2025, was held in partnership with CPU, the CPU Packaging Engineering Department, the Institute of Packaging Professionals – CPU Student Chapter, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) VI Packaging and Labeling Assistance Group, and the Provincial Government of Iloilo through its Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion Center.
PackSadya 2025 is an initiative under the CPUGAD TBI’s banner program, ICT for Sustainable and Creative Food Industry, aimed at promoting innovation in packaging solutions for the food industry. The event highlighted the crucial role of packaging in business growth and the empowerment of Ilonggo Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
True to its mission, PackSadya 2025 celebrated the entrepreneurial spirit of Ilonggo MSMEs by offering four insightful sessions: Importance of Packaging in Business, Packaging Regulations, Package Development, and Testimony of Success. These sessions brought together local entrepreneurs, packaging experts, and industry mentors, fostering shared learning and collaboration among participants. Local entrepreneurs gained valuable insights on enhancing product presentation, expanding market reach, and reflecting the essence of Iloilo in every package.
PackUp is a student-led startup under CPUGAD TBI that focuses on providing services in packaging and technology. One of PackUp’s key goals is to raise awareness about the importance and impact of packaging and technology. The team is primarily composed of packaging engineering and software engineering students, who work together to create innovative packaging solutions and bring technological advancements to the packaging sector.
CPUGAD TBI, the first DOST-supported TBI from a private university in Western Visayas, has been a vital platform for initiatives like PackUp that merge technology and entrepreneurship, helping foster innovation in the region.
At PackSadya 2025, packaging was not just a functional necessity but an integral part of creating a lasting first impression for products. Packaging serves as a means of quality assurance, brand identity, and a reflection of a product’s values and culture. The event provided an opportunity for local businesses to learn how to enhance their products’ appeal, improve market reach, and make a lasting impact on the global market through strategic packaging.
“This initiative celebrates and supports Ilonggo MSMEs, recognizing their vital role in the local economy,” said the CPUGAD TBI in a Facebook post. “We look forward to seeing Ilonggo products on shelves and markets around the world. This is only the beginning—PackUp and CPUGAD TBI remain committed to empowering enterprises through innovation, collaboration, and packaging with purpose.”
Through their collective efforts, the partners in PackSadya 2025 have ensured that the Ilonggo MSME sector will continue to thrive and gain recognition far beyond Iloilo’s borders. With packaging being such a significant part of a product’s success, local entrepreneurs are now equipped with the knowledge and tools needed to make a global impact, one package at a time.
The success of PackSadya 2025 serves as a testament to the power of collaboration and the transformative potential of packaging. This event, dedicated to local pride and innovation, will continue to pave the way for Ilonggo businesses to reach new heights in the competitive global market.