BAGUIO CITY (PIA) — Two pitching competitions in the 2025 CordINNOVATION focused on research and development, technologies and innovations that can address the development challenges of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and local government units (LGUs).
The pitching competition titled “Advancing MSME Growth through Smart and Innovative Solutions,” invites researchers from various higher education institutions in the Cordillera Region to create and present solutions to the challenges that several MSMEs pre-submitted, particularly in the categories of food processing, agriculture and creative industries.
The “A.Ideas for Impact: LGU Reverse Pitching,” on the other hand, is an interactive event spearheaded by the Department of Information and Communications Technology, in partnership with the Department of Science and Technology-Cordillera (DOST-CAR).
In this activity, which highlighted the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the economy, workforce, ethics and privacy, and digital inclusivity in the Philippines, innovators first presented their ideas, then the LGUs took center stage and presented their pressing challenges in service delivery and operations – challenges that can be effectively addressed through AI-driven solutions.
This reverse pitching format invited startups, researchers, and technology developers to propose innovative AI solutions tailored to real-world needs, fostering collaboration, innovation, and impact-driven technology adoption.
“This is an opportunity or a platform to collaborate, learn and grow together – building a sustainable and innovative future for our beloved Cordillera region,” DOST-CAR Regional Director Nancy Bantog said as she called for a continuing partnership and collaboration with Cordillera stakeholders from all sectors in pushing for Science, Technology and Innovation as a driver of progress and inclusive development in the region.
The DOST-CAR, in partnership with the Regional Research, Development and Innovation Committee (RRDIC) of the Regional Development Council, spearheaded on April 10-11 CordINNOVATION, an annual Cordillera event in celebration of the National Innovation Day.
The CordINNOVATION that was launched in 2023, aims to highlight and promote the region’s innovative spirit, encourage collaboration across sectors, and showcase significant research and development efforts.
In th meantime, DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations Sancho Mabborang, in his message of support, commended the RRDIC-CAR for coming up with the CordINNOVATION that not only celebrates Cordilleran ingenuity but also strengthens linkages among researchers, industries, communities, civil society organizations and government.
“Innovation is a cornerstone of regional development. It enables our communities to rise above limitations, improve the way we deliver services, enhance productivity across sectors, and create more resilient, future-ready communities. When innovation becomes part of local governance, education, and industry — it transforms not only systems but also quality of lives. It drives economic competitiveness while making sure no one is left behind,” Mabborang said.
“May CordINNOVATION 2025 inspire more breakthroughs, partnerships, and impact more sustainable, and innovation-driven communities — starting with empowered and resilient regions like yours, para sa makaBagong Pilipinas,” he added. (JDP/CCD-PIA CAR)
