By Frances Charlyn Batara, STRATCOM Correspondent

The Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU), through the Regional Agri-Aqua Innovation System Enhancement (RAISE) program, spearheaded a National Intellectual Property (IP) Valuation Training on September 8-12 at the Plaza del Norte Hotel and Convention Center in Laoag City, Ilocos Norte.

The five-day training aimed to equip RAISE program stakeholders with knowledge on the basic principles and methods of technology valuation for commercialization, alongside hands-on activities on actual valuation for their respective technologies. The training was attended by 34 technology transfer officers from 28 agencies across Regions III, VI, VIII, IX, and XI.

It was co-implemented with the DOST-Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD) and the Association of PAQE Professionals, Inc. (APP Inc.), a non-profit organization composed of certified patent lawyers and agents that promotes the professionalization of patent practice and the use of the patent system.

Present during the opening ceremony were Ilocos Norte 1st District Board Member Marlon Ferdinand Sales, vice chair of the Committee on Agriculture; Atty. Chrissie Ann Barredo, treasurer of APP Inc.; and Prof. Armie Sabugo, director of MMSU-Innovation and Technology. DOST-Region 1 Director Teresita Tabaog also extended her support through a pre-recorded message.

Serving as resource speakers were Dr. Emil John Cabrera, director of the Technology Transfer and Business Development Office at University of the Philippines, Los Baños (TTBDO-UPLB); Prof. Fitz Jimenez, technical evaluator for finance at DOST-CALABARZON and faculty member of the UPLB College of Economics and Management; Mr. Don Thed Ramirez, certified financial consultant affiliated with the Institute of Financial Consultants; and Ms. Cathrene Amante, technology transfer officer at TTBDO-UPLB.

Program highlights included the recognition of the Top Valuation Awardees, with Mr. Lloyd Esparagoza of Iloilo Science and Technology University taking first place, Mr. Rey Castillo of the University of Southeastern Philippines placing second, and Ms. Maricar Eyao of Capiz State University securing third place.

In his message, MMSU President Dr. Virgilio Julius P. Manzano, Jr. underscored the importance of sustained efforts and collaboration in uplifting the agri-aqua industry. 

Meanwhile, RAISE Ilocos Norte Program Leader Dr. Dionisio Bucao congratulated the participants, stressing that the conclusion of the training “is not an end but a beginning of bigger opportunities in agri-aqua innovation.” He also wished for the completers’ success in advancing research, innovation, and technology commercialization.

Funded by DOST-PCAARRD, the RAISE Program at MMSU focuses on promoting intellectual property (IP) management, innovation, and the commercialization of research outputs.

📸MMSU InnoTech