The Capiz State University’s (CAPSU) CAPSULE ATBI, incubatees and student innovators received awards and recognitions at the Western Visayas Innovative Startup Fest held at the Festive Wall Mall in Iloilo City on September 20, 2025.
The CAPSUs’ Center for Advancing Partnerships; Stimulating Upscale and Learning Enterprises (CAPSULE) Agri-Aqua Technology Business Incubator (ATBI) was recognized as an Outstanding Incubator for Agriculture and Aquatic and other Natural Resources sector (AANR). Dr. Leo Andrew B. Biclar, Vice President for Research, Development and Extension and Mr. Mark Glenn F. Villamor, University Planning Officer IV, received the award on behalf of the University President Dr. Efren L. Linan.
Mr. Mark Glenn F. Villamor delivered the speech of gratitude on behalf of the University. He thanked the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) for their trust and funding support to the CAPSU ATBI and its incubatees. He also highlighted the support of the University Administration and its commitment to building an innovative ecosystem that contributes to the thriving development of the region.
Ms. Divine Borja, founder of the famous OG Kopi and a CAPSU ATBI incubatee received the Outstanding Start-Up of the Year award. Ma. Carmen Besa of 7JF Steel Fabrication, also a CAPSU ATBI incubatee was recognized as one of the finalists in the same category.
Mr. Rogin L. Ubamos, a Magna Cum Laude Bachelor of Science in Information Technology graduate of CAPSU Pilar Satellite College was recognized as among the Top 3 Most Outstanding Student in Technology of Western Visayas and also received the Community Impact Award with his ICT project that caters to children with special needs. During his speech of gratitude, Mr. Ubamos expressed his appreciation to the University Administration for the support that he received and for the entire CAPSU community for inspiring him to develop technology that creates impact to the community, especially to the unheard voices of the children with special needs. His fellow CAPSU alumnus Mr. Isaac Ungui from CAPSU Dayao Satellite College was among the Top 10 finalists in the same category.
University key officials were also in attendance to show their support to the incubatees and students including Dr. Jennifer Benliro, Director of Pilar Satellite College; Dr. Marivic Nava of Dayao Satellite College; Mr. Albert Bernardo, CAPSU ATBI Manager and some faculty members.
The Western Visayas Innovation Awards 2025 is organized by Global Shapers Community – Iloilo Hub, DEVCON Visayas Programs, UMWAD Western Visayas and the DOST Regional Office VI. It aims to recognize innovators, startups and changemakers in the vibrant startup ecosystem of the region.
| via Frederick D. Almeida, CAPSU-PIO
with information from Dr. Leo Andrew B. Biclar