Cagayan Valley Startup Week (CVSW) 2024 Press Conference | September 17, 2024 | SM City Tuguegarao
Engr. Mariael Denise Capili • Sep 24, 2024
3 min read • 38 views
On the afternoon of the first day of the Cagayan Valley Startup Week (CVSW) 2024 on September 17, 2024, at SM City Tuguegarao, began with a high-energy press conference moderated by Ms. Patrianne M. Padua. The event brought together media partners, including DWPE Radyo Pilipinas – Tuguegarao, The Northern Forum, and the Philippine Information Agency – Region 02, and representatives from member agencies of the SINAG Cagayan Valley consortium.
Dr. Junel B. Guzman, SINAG Director and CSU Vice President for RDE, opened the press conference by introducing the consortium and its mission. “We are here to nurture startups and develop the startup ecosystem in the region,” he emphasized, highlighting SINAG’s commitment to fostering local innovation.
Adding perspective from the government side, Engr. Mark Gil S. Hizon, Supervising Science Research Specialist of DOST Region 02, explained, “SINAG is the umbrella institution for six TBIs, in partnership with five government and private agencies—DOST, DICT, DTI, DA, and PCCI. This consortium aims to maximize the efforts of each organization, working together to build the ecosystem.”
Ms. Evelyn L. Velasco, President of PCCI – Cagayan Chapter, underscored the economic impact of supporting local startups. “Through SINAG, we can improve the local economy. We support local startups, knowing that as they grow, they contribute to the economy’s overall growth.”
Representing the investment community, Mr. Cloyd C. Velasco, President of AAI Ph, highlighted the consortium’s focus on funding and mentorship. “Our contribution ensures startups have access to funding by linking them with venture capital firms and providing mentorship on technical operations and management. We evaluate each startup to see if they are truly ready for business.”
During the Q&A, media partners inquired about the specific roles of consortium members. Dr. Guzman explained that CSU and its TBIs offer mentorship, access to funding, and technical support for commercialization. Engr. Magdalena D. Gomez of DICT Region 02 shared the agency’s role as enabler, mentor, and leader in advancing the digital economy.
DOST programs were also highlighted, including the HEIRIT Program, Startup Grant Fund (SGF), and WHWise Program, which collectively aim to incubate startups and support women innovators. From SABATAN Technopreneurs Hub at Nueva Vizcaya State University, Mr. Josue A. Chua explained how they assess startup readiness and safeguard intellectual property. Meanwhile, Engr. Michelangelo G. Barroga, founder of Exoid Robotics, shared his positive experience as an incubatee, emphasizing the role of TBIs in helping startups grow.
On the topic of startup funding, Mr. Velasco explained the progression from seed funding to Series A and beyond, stressing that timing depends on each startup’s readiness and growth potential. Questions about the future of a Metapolis in the region sparked a discussion on collaboration. Ms. Velasco highlighted the importance of partnerships between government, academia, and the private sector to make transformative regional developments possible.
The press conference concluded with certificates of appreciation and tokens awarded to media partners, recognizing their contributions to CVSW 2024.
