The CVSW2025 featured the 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐮𝐩 𝐄𝐧𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐜𝐥𝐚𝐯𝐞, which served as a key platform for dialogue, collaboration, and knowledge exchange among government leaders, innovators, entrepreneurs, and academic institutions. These sessions collectively highlighted the region’s growing commitment to fostering a vibrant, innovation-driven startup ecosystem. This focused on 𝐁𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐏𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐞𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐋𝐨𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐏𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐲 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐈𝐧𝐧𝐨𝐯𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 through three insightful sessions.

In the first session, Mr. Reiner P. Cardenas emphasized the critical role of Local Government Units (LGUs) in building a strong startup ecosystem. He underscored the need for local policies and ordinances that integrate innovation support into development plans and provide incentives for startups. He also called for collaboration between the government, private sector, and academe, as mandated by the Innovative Startup Act (RA 11337), to build a “Startup-Ready Cagayan Valley.”

The second session, led by Engr. Mark Gil S. Hizon of DOST, focused on grassroots innovation and the agency’s programs—such as the Technology Business Incubator (TBI), Startup Ecosystem Development Program (SEDAP), and Regional Startup Ecosystem Enhancement Development (RESEED). These initiatives aim to empower local innovators, decentralize startup growth, and strengthen regional collaboration through science and technology.

The third session, delivered by Engr. Magdalena D. Gomez of DICT Region 2, centered on digital governance and smart cities as key enablers of innovation. She emphasized that investments in connectivity, data infrastructure, and cybersecurity create the foundation for startup-friendly cities. Highlighting Cauayan City as a model smart city, she called on LGUs to champion digital transformation, co-create tech-driven local solutions, and foster trust through open data and e-governance.

Following the conclave, the 𝐄𝐜𝐨𝐬𝐲𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐦 𝐁𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐮𝐦, moderated by Ms. Evelyn L. Velasco, gathered experts from DTI, DOST, DICT, DA, and the private sector to discuss how LGUs, HEIs, and agencies can empower startups.

Dr. Junel B. Guzman and Mr. Josue A. Chua of SINAG Cagayan Valley emphasized sustained collaboration among stakeholders, while Engr. Hizon, Mr. Cardenas, and Engr. Gomez highlighted how their agencies are bridging the gap between policy, technology, and entrepreneurship. Mr. Cloyd C. Velasco of the Philippine Network of Angel Funders, Inc. (PNAF) provided investor insights, stressing the importance of solid proof over mere pitching. Ms. Alliah Joselle P. Galano of DA-Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division (DA-AMAD) presented agribusiness support programs that empower young farmers and innovators through funding and mentorship.

The forum ended on a high note, with participants reaffirming that collaboration, strategy, and innovation are the cornerstones of a thriving startup ecosystem. It concluded with the collective call to transform Cagayan Valley into a region where startups are not only born but thrive, scale, and succeed, cementing the region’s identity as an emerging innovation hub in the Philippines.

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