Breeding technology transfer toward a sustainable agri-aqua industry.

The Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) launched the Agri-Aqua Technology Business Incubator (ATBI) for the transfer and commercialization of research-based technologies in Region I, April 27. 

MMSU and DOST’s Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD) envision to assist the micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the Ilocos Region through the project dubbed Divergent Aspirations Pivoting Alliances and Networks (DAP-AYAN).

Prof. Mishael Joy S. Barerra, MMSU-ATBI project leader, explained the DAP-AYAN responds to the challenge of creating jobs, promoting public-private partnerships, and developing entrepreneurs for regional economic development. 

“We will provide a more conducive ecosystem for entrepreneurs to promote and nurture technology-based enterprises and to complement the existing MSMEs in the locality,” Barrera added. 

Dr. Carmelo J. Esteban, university’s vice president for research, extension and business, said the initiative to produce successful and viable firms by delivering business development services. 

MMSU President Shirley C. Agrupis believes the ATBI will further reinforce the Ilocos Norte Agriculture and Fishery Extension System (INAFES), a provincial government-led extension program that provides technical and business advisory services to farming and fishing communities.

Agrupis also expressed commitment to partner with other ATBIs and existing MSMEs, as well as in fast-tracking agribusiness development in this part of the country. 

The virtual launching was graced by Dr. Noel C. Catibog, director of PCAARRD’s Technology Transfer and Promotion Division; Dr. Armando Q. Ganal, director of DOST Region I; Dr. Epifania O. Agustin, program leader of the Ilocos Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development Consortium; and Ms. Rosario Quodala, director of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) - Ilocos Norte.

The MMSU-ATBI is under the supervision of the University Innovation and Technology Support Office (UITSO). – Daniel P. Tapaoan, Jr. (StratCom)