MMSU President Virgilio Julius P. Manzano, Jr., led the university’s delegation to the RAISE Summit Week 2025 in Tagaytay City from October 13-16, where key leaders and stakeholders from higher education institutions, government agencies, and partner organizations convened to further the mission of the Regional Agri-Aqua Innovation System Enhancement (RAISE) Program.

During the summit, the MMSU delegation will participate in plenary sessions, gaining insights into innovation and sustainability in agri-aqua technology business incubation.

The RAISE Program in MMSU has four components that were represented in the event: Knowledge Management (KM), Agri Business Hub (ABH), Agri-Aqua Technology Business Innovation (ATBI), and Intellectual Property and Technology Business Management (IPTBM).

With Dr. Manzano are KM Project Leader Love Grace Campano, ABH Project Leader Ethel Reynda Calivoso, ATBI Project Leader Lei Frances Ribac, Project Staff members Mr. Jerson Coloma, Mr. James Carlo Lucas, Ms. Joyce Alejo, and Ms. Cathlyn Alupay, MMSU ATBI incubatee Ms. Infenita Puyot, and IPTBM Project Staff Artbelson Mamuri.

Joining them to represent the RAISE Program Ilocos are IPTBM Project Leader Vicky Malaya with her project staff, Dr. Kennette Bayani and Ms. Eden Borce from Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University.

During the first day, the university showcased a range of products developed by MMSU ATBI incubatees, along with university-based technologies that are ready for commercialization, highlighting the university’s growing impact in research, innovation, and enterprise development.

Dr. Manzano also signed the pledge of commitment in support of the RAISE Program, joining fellow heads of participating agencies in affirming their unified dedication to advancing the program’s initiatives. The ceremonial signing symbolized solidarity and shared responsibility in driving forward sustainable, inclusive, and future-ready development in the country.

In her message of support, CHED Chairperson and former MMSU President Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis emphasized the vital role of science in national development and policy-making. She commended the organizers and participants for their commitment to research and innovation in addressing pressing societal challenges.

“Science is not optional; it is required,” Dr. Agrupis asserted, urging state universities and colleges (SUCs) to prioritize research and education as essential pillars for sustainable growth and economic development.

The RAISE Summit Week 2025 serves as a strategic platform for sharing best practices, aligning efforts with the Philippine Development Plan, and enriching partnerships to elevate the SUCCEED agenda of MMSU, positioning the university as a hub for regional and national economic development.

MMSU Agri-Aqua Technology Business Incubator (MMSU-ATBI)