By Kimberly S. Miguel, StratCom Correspondent

Showcasing an exemplary performance in technology pitching, the Agri-Aqua Technology Business Incubator (ATBI) office of Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) emerged victorious in the Agri-Aqua Innovation Pitch Fest held at the Acacia Hotel in Alabang, Muntinlupa City on December 6. 

Ms. Lei Frances Ribac, technology commercialization officer of MMSU-ATBI, won first runner up in the Best Technology Pitcher competition with a Php 7,000 cash award. She pitched the MMSU’s Furikake with Black Garlic under the food and beverages products category.  

The product is a black garlic-based seasoning that is used to spice up steamed rice. Rich in antioxidants, this healthy supplement with nutraceutical potential is made from locally harvested seaweed, malunggay leaves, garlic, and sesame seeds.

As a promising and marketable innovation, a venture on furikake with black garlic is projected to yield 59.67% return on investment in five years from an initial investment of over Php 730,000, with a five percent increase in demand. This product is sold at Php 110 for 50 grams. 

“As good nutrition is a foundation for economic prosperity, investments in nutrition are highly cost-effective,” Ms. Ribac said, adding that they will market the product once they accomplish its complete nutritional analysis and get approval from the Food and Drug Administration next year. 

“This recognition reflects the flourishing innovation culture that we sustain here in MMSU and in the Ilocos region,” remarked Dr. Dionisio Bucao, director of the MMSU Science and Technology Park and program leader of the Regional Agri-Aqua Innovation System Enhancement program in Region I. 

Furikake with black garlic is under the project titled “Enhanced Usability and Profitability of Garlic Processing” led by University President Shirley C. Agrupis under the Niche Centers in the Regions program on Garlic and Other Agri-Food Condiments Research Center based in MMSU. Aside from Ms. Ribac, other creators of the product are Dr. Agrupis (plant physiologist), Ms. Milen Inocencio (horticulturist), and Ms. Jocelyn del Rosario (food processor).

The MMSU-ATBI product is one of the 26 technologies showcased in the national fest which were grouped into four categories: agri-aqua inputs and products, food products and beverages, agricultural/aquatic equipment and machinery, and other agri-aqua technologies. 

With the theme “Make science and technology your business edge,” the event was organized by the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development, in collaboration with the Association of PAQE (Patent Agents Qualifying Examinations) Professionals, and the Licensing Executives Society of the Philippines. (HLY/DPTJ, StratCom)