Innovate Iloilo

30/10/2025

Innovation thrives when ideas meet opportunity. It’s inspiring to see more platforms opening space for meaningful conversations on entrepreneurship and inclusive growth in the Philippines.

This Friday, October 31 at 3 PM, tune in to the Community Chat on the Rappler app and join the discussion on how we can better support innovators and sustainable solutions.

Through its commitment to nurturing young innovators, Ilonggo talents, exemplifies how local initiatives can shape a more sustainable and forward-looking future.

Let’s keep the momentum of innovation alive—see you at the Community Chat!

HELPING YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS

Innovation and entrepreneurship are essential drivers of inclusive growth and sustainable development in the Philippines. What can the youth do to start businesses that can last?

Let’s talk with organizations on how Filipinos can support innovators and their sustainable solutions. Join the Environment and Science chat room of the Rappler app on Friday, October 31, for a Community Chat.

30/10/2025

𝗣𝗖𝗖𝗜 𝗜𝗟𝗢𝗜𝗟𝗢 𝗝𝗢𝗜𝗡𝗦 𝗟𝗔𝗨𝗡𝗖𝗛 𝗢𝗙 𝗜𝗦𝗔𝗧 𝗨’𝗦 𝗦𝗠𝗔𝗥𝗧 𝗠𝗔𝗡𝗨𝗙𝗔𝗖𝗧𝗨𝗥𝗜𝗡𝗚, 𝗔𝗨𝗧𝗢𝗠𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡 𝗔𝗡𝗗 𝗥𝗢𝗕𝗢𝗧𝗜𝗖𝗦 𝗧𝗘𝗖𝗛𝗡𝗢𝗟𝗢𝗚𝗬 (𝗦𝗠𝗔𝗥𝗧𝗘𝗖𝗛) 𝗖𝗘𝗡𝗧𝗘𝗥
PCCI Iloilo, represented by President Engr. Fulbert C. Woo and Corporate Secretary Francis Gerona, participated in the launching and Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing for the Smart Manufacturing, Automation, and Robotics Technology (SMARTECH) Center on October 28, 2025, at Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U).
The SMARTECH Center is a strategic collaboration among ISAT U, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Region VI, Developers Connect – Iloilo, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry – Iloilo Chapter, and the Mechatronics and Robotics Society of the Philippines – Western Visayas Chapter.
This partnership aims to enhance the region’s capacity for automation, robotics, and smart manufacturing, supporting industries through research, innovation, and talent development.
ISAT U committed to four key areas:
✅ Technical training, research, and capacity-building in robotics and automation
✅ Establishment of a research hub for experimentation and prototyping
✅ Promotion of academic–industry collaboration for innovation
✅ Integration of robotics initiatives into academic and research programs
The event was graced by DOST Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum Jr., Undersecretary Dr. Sancho A. Mabborang, Regional Director Engr. Rowen R. Gelonga, ISAT U President Dr. Gabriel M. Salistre Jr., and VP for Research and Extension Dr. Carmelo V. Ambut.
PCCI Iloilo reaffirms its support for advancing Industry 4.0 technologies and nurturing a more innovative, tech-driven economy in Western Visayas.

Photos courtesy of ISAT University - Public Information Office

30/10/2025

𝗖𝗔𝗟𝗟 𝗙𝗢𝗥 𝗡𝗢𝗠𝗜𝗡𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡𝗦 • 𝗔𝗦𝗣𝗜𝗥𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗘𝗡𝗧𝗥𝗘𝗣𝗥𝗘𝗡𝗘𝗨𝗥 𝗢𝗙 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗬𝗘𝗔𝗥 𝗔𝗪𝗔𝗥𝗗 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱

Are you building a business that solves real-world challenges? Do you have the drive to lead and leave a legacy of impact?

PCCI Iloilo invites innovative and socially driven entrepreneurs to join a year-long program of mentorship, training, and business development — equipping you to grow and scale your vision for the community.

✅ Open to micro and small businesses with P2M declared capital & below
✅ Must be DTI/SEC registered and operating in Iloilo City/Province (min. 6 months)
✅ Encouraged sectors: Agriculture, Tech & Innovation, Food & Beverage, Social Enterprise, Cottage Industries, Culture & Arts, and related fields

🏆 Perks & Opportunities
• Free booth at ILOBEX — the region’s biggest trade expo
• Free PCCI Membership for 2 Years
• Business mentorship & capability-building programs
• Development support for finalists & winners

LINK TO GUIDELINES & APPLICATION FORM: https://bit.ly/47N2I4X

📅 Deadline of Submission: November 21, 2025

Send your documents to [email protected]

💡 From ideas that inspire, to enterprises that empower — this is your moment to rise. Submit your nomination now and be the next Aspiring Entrepreneur of the Year!

27/10/2025

𝗜𝗟𝗢𝗜𝗟𝗢 𝗖𝗜𝗧𝗬 𝗖𝗘𝗟𝗘𝗕𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗘𝗦 𝗔𝗪𝗔𝗥𝗗𝗦, 𝗣𝗨𝗦𝗛𝗘𝗦 𝗙𝗢𝗥 𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗥𝗧𝗨𝗣 𝗚𝗥𝗢𝗪𝗧𝗛!

The Iloilo City Government, led by Mayor Raisa Treñas, opened the week with pride and purpose during the City Hall Flag-Raising Ceremony on October 27, 2025.

Recently earned awards from the City Health Office, City Veterinarian Office, Public Employment Service Office, Data Assessment and System Management Office, and City Assessor’s Office were presented—proof of the city’s dedication to excellence and good governance. 🏆

In her message, Mayor Raisa emphasized the city’s growing startup ecosystem and revealed plans to formalize nano enterprises, highlighting innovation as the heart of Iloilo’s inclusive growth.

“Start-ups kag mga innovations, suportahan gid naton kay subong nakita na gid nila nga ang syudad is one of the fastest-growing cities,” she said.

📸 J. Belarde / Iloilo City PIO

24/10/2025

𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗴𝗿𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀, 𝗜𝗹𝗼𝗶𝗹𝗼 𝗖𝗶𝘁𝘆! 🎉

What a proud moment for every Ilonggo! Iloilo City has been named the Most Business-Friendly Local Government Unit (City Level 1B Category) for 2025 by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI)!

This well-deserved recognition shines a spotlight on the City’s dedication to innovation, good governance, and collaboration with the business community — truly building a future-ready and inclusive Iloilo!

Read the full story and celebrate this milestone with us!

Click the link to learn more about how Iloilo continues to champion growth and innovation:

https://innovateiloilo.com/iloilo-city-named-2025-most-business-friendly-lgu-in-the-philippines

Padayon, Iloilo City! Here’s to more milestones ahead! 🙌🌟

Iloilo City has been recognized as the Most Business-Friendly LGU (City Level 1B Category) for 2025 by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry. A proud milestone celebrating good governance, innovation, and strong partnerships under Mayor Raisa Treñas.

24/10/2025

🎉 A Proud Moment for Iloilo City! 🎉

Warm congratulations to the Iloilo City Government, led by Hon. Mayor Raisa Treñas, for being recognized as the Most Business-Friendly Local Government Unit (City Level 1B Category) for 2025 by PCCI National! 🌟

This well-earned recognition reflects the City’s unwavering commitment to innovation-driven leadership, good governance, and a strong spirit of partnership with the business community—truly shaping Iloilo as a hub of inclusive and sustainable progress.

Here’s to continued collaboration as we work hand in hand to build a thriving, future-ready Iloilo! 💼✨

𝗖𝗢𝗡𝗚𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗨𝗟𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡𝗦, 𝗜𝗟𝗢𝗜𝗟𝗢 𝗖𝗜𝗧𝗬 𝗚𝗢𝗩𝗘𝗥𝗡𝗠𝗘𝗡𝗧!

The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry–Iloilo Chapter (PCCI Iloilo) extends its warmest congratulations to the Iloilo City Government, led by Hon. Mayor Raisa Treñas, for being named the Most Business-Friendly Local Government Unit (City Level 1B Category) for 2025 by PCCI National.

Your consistent drive for innovation, good governance, and strong collaboration with the private sector continues to make Iloilo a model of inclusive and sustainable growth.

PCCI Iloilo remains steadfast in its partnership with the City Government as we continue to champion economic development and business excellence for our beloved Iloilo.

22/10/2025

Heartfelt congratulations to the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry–Iloilo Chapter, Inc. (PCCI Iloilo) for being honored with the Hall of Fame Award as the Most Outstanding Local Chamber of the Philippines — a remarkable achievement earned through three consecutive years of excellence (2023, 2024, and 2025)!

This recognition, received during the 51st Philippine Business Conference and Expo at the SMX Convention Center, Pasay City, stands as a testament to the chapter’s steadfast commitment to advancing local enterprise, innovation, and inclusive growth.

Here’s to more milestones that continue to uplift Iloilo’s vibrant business community! 💼✨

𝗣𝗖𝗖𝗜 𝗜𝗟𝗢𝗜𝗟𝗢 𝗕𝗔𝗚𝗦 𝗛𝗔𝗟𝗟 𝗢𝗙 𝗙𝗔𝗠𝗘 𝗛𝗢𝗡𝗢𝗥 𝗔𝗦 𝗠𝗢𝗦𝗧 𝗢𝗨𝗧𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗡𝗗𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗟𝗢𝗖𝗔𝗟 𝗖𝗛𝗔𝗠𝗕𝗘𝗥 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱

The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry–Iloilo Chapter, Inc. (PCCI Iloilo) has been recognized as the Most Outstanding Local Chamber of the Philippines (Hall of Fame Award) after winning the distinction for three consecutive years — 2023, 2024, and 2025.

Accepting the award were President Engr. Fulbert C. Woo, Chairman Felix H. Tiu, and VP Jerduen “Noi” Dongor during the 51st Philippine Business Conference and Expo held at SMX Convention Center, Pasay City.

21/10/2025

🌟 Strengthening Innovation Across the Visayas! 🌟

UMWAD Western Visayas joined the TBI Retooling Workshop – Visayas Leg, held on October 20–24, 2025 at the DOST Region VII Science and Technology Complex in Cebu City.

Organized by IDEAS Davao in collaboration with the DASIG Consortium and supported by DOST Region VII, the workshop gathered TBI managers and innovation leaders to strengthen collaboration and enhance capacities across the Visayas.

🚀 A step forward in building a united and future-ready innovation network across the Visayas!

09/10/2025

Think you know Western Visayas? Think again.

We're bringing 100 game-changing MSMEs from Aklan, Antique, Capiz, Guimaras, Iloilo, and Negros Occidental — rewriting what "Made in Western Visayas" truly means.

This is not your typical mall event.

This is PANUBLI-ON 2025 — where Local Ingenuity meets New Opportunities - and it's about to blow your mind.

PANUBLI-ON means "heritage" - and we're celebrating OURS like never before.

100 exhibitors showcasing innovation rooted in tradition
Products made with heart, soul, and serious skill
6 provinces, ONE proud region

BUT WAIT — IT GETS BETTER.

We've packed each day with unforgettable experiences and side events:

Live demos from the Creatives Cluster
Fashion show that'll break the internet
One Town One Product Roadshow
Mentor-Match Pitching for Startups
FREE tastings all week long (coffee, cacao, coconut goodies! yes, FREE!)

Shop. Taste. Experience local craftsmanship at its finest.

Come for the shopping. Stay for the pride. Leave inspired.

Who's coming with you? Tag them below!

November 5–9, 2025
SM City Iloilo

09/10/2025

Students in Capiz gain new skills in tech through DOST-led robotics and automation training

Students of Sapian National High School in Capiz gain new skills in tech through Basic Robotics and Automation Training as part of the school’s Science Camp in celebration of the 2025 Science Month.

The training facilitated by the Department of Science and Technology Region VI – Capiz Provincial S&T Office (DOST VI-Capiz PSTO), in partnership with the Philippine Science High School Western Visayas (PSHS-WVC), introduced the students to the basic concepts of automation and robotics, giving them a better understanding of how these technologies are shaping daily life and future industries. Through engaging discussions and demonstrations, the participants were encouraged to imagine new possibilities and appreciate the role of science and technology in solving real-world problems.

Mr. Jesiah B. Aguilar of PSHS-WVC discussed automation and demonstrated how tools like Arduino can be applied in practical situations using tinkerCAD, a free, browser-based program for creating 3D models, electronic circuits, and block-based code, primarily used for education and simple design projects.

Mr. Gerald V. Salazar, also from PSHS-WVC, presented robotics with a demonstration using mBots which are educational robot kits designed to teach students about programming, electronics, and robotics in a hands-on way. Their sessions inspired students to see how robots and automation systems can be programmed to perform tasks, sparking curiosity and interest in STEM fields.

The sessions did not only teach technical skills but also encouraged students to think critically and creatively. Many were inspired to imagine how robotics and automation could help solve real-life problems in their communities. For some, the activity also sparked dreams of pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

By the end of the training, the participants gained not just new knowledge but also a stronger appreciation for the role of science and technology in building a better and more advanced society. (PMOBautista/DOST Capiz)

04/10/2025

When startups crash, founders learn — and today proved that failure truly fuels growth. 🔥

Thank you to everyone who joined the first-ever Crash & Burn Sessions! Your openness, stories, and shared lessons made this event an inspiring space for reflection, learning, and rebuilding stronger than before.

Here’s to more honest conversations, resilient founders, and a startup ecosystem that turns every crash into a comeback. 🚀

03/10/2025

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐚𝐢𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫!

The Kwadra TBI Cohort 4 Demo/Pitch Day marks the culmination of months of mentorship, learning, and startup building. This final pitch presentation will showcase promising founders as they unveil their solutions to real-world challenges, blending creativity, technology, and impact.

Good luck to our Cohort 4 incubatees! ✨