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PackUp: CPU’s Student-Led Startup named finalist for Startup of the Year at Western Visayas Innovation Awards 2025

by | Sep 27, 2025 | Centralian Link

By CPUGAD TBI


PackUp, a student-led startup incubated under DOST–CPU CPUGAD TBI, was named a Finalist for Startup of the Year at the Western Visayas Innovation Awards 2025.

Innovation doesn’t always begin in boardrooms or big companies. Sometimes, it starts in classrooms, student projects, and the daring dreams of young entrepreneurs. For PackUp, a student-led startup nurtured under the DOST–CPU CPUGAD Technology Business Incubator (CPUGAD TBI), those dreams have taken flight, earning them a Finalist spot for Startup of the Year at the Western Visayas Innovative Startup Fest 2025 Innovation Awards.

What makes this recognition remarkable is that PackUp was the only student-led venture among the finalists—competing side by side with more established startups in the region.

A Journey from Campus to Community Impact

PackUp’s story reflects the growing strength of CPU’s innovation culture. The startup, led by CEO Matt Rafael Genito and SuppliiPack Product Owner & CXO Matthew Ledesma, has been steadily building solutions that address packaging and logistics challenges with sustainability and community impact at the core.

During the awards ceremony, CEO Matt shared a heartfelt message: “This is a collaborative effort since day one, and this imposes a challenge and a responsibility to continue innovating for the betterment of the community and the world.”

Their recognition not only highlights their vision but also underscores the role of DOST-CPU CPUGAD TBI in nurturing young innovators into future-ready startup leaders.

Celebrating Innovation with CPUGAD TBI

The award was accepted by Genito and Ledesma together with CPUGAD TBI General Manager Mr. Mark Gil D. Peraman and Project Leader Engr. Gelvie C. Lagos, who have guided and supported PackUp in its incubation journey.

For CPUGAD TBI, PackUp’s milestone is a testament to how innovation thrives when students are given the space, mentorship, and resources to turn ideas into impactful ventures.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Innovators

As a finalist for Startup of the Year, PackUp’s achievement symbolizes the power of student innovation to compete on a regional stage. Their recognition sends a message of possibility: that young founders can spark change not only within their campus but also across communities.

Through the support of DOST-CPU CPUGAD TBI and its growing innovation ecosystem, PackUp is proving that the future of entrepreneurship in Western Visayas is being shaped by the creativity, courage, and commitment of today’s student innovators.