Building the Next Generation of Filipino Technopreneurs: DOST-SEI Graduates 100 Scholars from STTP Region 7
CEBU CITY, PHILIPPINES – During the Demo Day held last 29 August 2025 at Marco Polo Plaza Cebu, 100 scholars from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Region 7 graduated from the Scholars Technopreneurship Training Program (STTP), spearheaded by the Department of Science and Technology – Science Education Institute (DOST-SEI). After 6 months of intensive training facilitated by Leave a Nest Philippines as the official training provider, these scholars are now prepared to take on new challenges. Building on the success of its previous implementation in Region 7, STTP Region 7 marks another milestone in nurturing future technopreneurs—empowering them to harness their passion and excellence in science and technology to create innovative solutions that improve society and open more opportunities for fellow Filipinos.
The morning session opened with welcoming remarks from the Regional Director of DOST Region 7, Dr. Tristan L. Abando, who expressed his appreciation for the conduct of the training program. This was followed by Dr. Renato U. Solidum, Jr., DOST Secretary, who shared insights on the previous implementations of technopreneurship programs. Building on this, Engr. Sancho A. Mabborang, Undersecretary for Regional Operations of DOST, welcomed the scholars into the startup ecosystem, while Atty. Marion Ivy D. Decena, Director of the Department of Science and Technology – Technology Application and Promotion Institute (DOST-TAPI), offered words of encouragement to further inspire them. Dr. Josette T. Biyo, HRD Consultant of DOST-SEI, then reflected on the scholars’ journey in past bootcamps and emphasized the purpose behind each one. Concluding the session, Dr. Jayeel S. Cornelio, Director IV of DOST-SEI, delivered an inspiring message on motivation—urging scholars to pursue their innovative ideas for the betterment of the nation and leaving them with an introspective question to carry forward in their startup journeys.
In the afternoon, the hard work of fourteen (14) teams culminated in a showcase of inspiring and impactful business ideas pitched center stage before an audience of distinguished guests and an esteemed panel of judges, (read more about the teams and judges here). Each pitch was followed by a question-and-answer segment that opened opportunities for further discussion. This was succeeded by the poster presentation, where the DOST scholars engaged with representatives from Technology Business Incubators (TBIs) who served as poster judges. Overall, these interactive setups enabled the judges to connect more closely with the teams, gain deeper insights into the kinds of support the scholars needed, and explore ways to help advance their ventures.
After careful deliberation, the main and poster judges conferred accolades to the STTP Region 7 teams listed below, honoring their ventures for their strong problem-solution fit, viability, feasibility, pre-prototype creation, societal impact, passion, and overall pitch quality. Moreover, each award highlighted the judges’ desire to collaborate with the teams they felt most aligned with. Ultimately, every team proved excellent in their own right—receiving well-deserved recognition and opportunities, on top of the Wadhwani Award from Wadhwani Foundation, which was granted to all teams for further technopreneurship training, mentorship, and incubation.
MAJOR AWARDS
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MAIN AWARDS
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SPECIAL AWARDS
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The program wrapped up on a warm note with the closing remarks delivered by Mr. Peter Gerry P. Gavina, Chief Science Research Specialist from DOST-SEI, who encouraged the DOST scholars to carry forward the lessons from the program to make a difference. Commending their hard work, he urged them to continue innovating for the country.
Leave a Nest Philippines congratulates DOST-SEI for the successful implementation of another STTP and is grateful for the opportunity to serve as its training provider. The event would also not have been possible without the support of the honorable guests, partners, judges, and of course, the scholars, to whom Leave a Nest Philippines extends its heartfelt gratitude. Needless to say, this is only the beginning. However, it marks a significant milestone in reshaping the Philippine business, science, and technology landscape.
For more information, you may contact DOST-SEI ([email protected]), or reach out to Ms. Hannah Mae Balisi ([email protected]) or Mr. Bryan Foronda ([email protected]) from Leave a Nest Philippines.
To learn more about STTP Region 7, you may also explore previously published news releases through the following links: