MMSU Innovation and Technology Directorate

17/08/2026

𝗙𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗦𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗦𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗣𝘂𝗿𝗽𝗼𝘀𝗲: 𝗜𝗻𝗻𝗼𝗧𝗲𝗰𝗵 𝗖𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗯𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀 𝗔𝗦𝗘𝗔𝗡

In celebration of the 59th Founding Anniversary of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) Innovation and Technology (InnoTech) Directoratejoined the university-wide observance through a fellowship lunch featuring ASEAN-inspired cuisine and delicacies.

Following guidance from MMSU President Virgilio Julius P. Manzano, Jr., all colleges and units observed the ASEAN anniversary through unit-level activities. The InnoTech staff brought ASEAN cuisine and delicacies to the fellowship lunch, creating an opportunity to appreciate the region's diverse food traditions while strengthening camaraderie among colleagues.

Beyond the celebration, the activity also highlighted the university's commitment to environmental sustainability. In support of the Zero Single-Use Plastic Policy, pursuant to BOR Resolution No. 87, s. 2025. Prof. Armie C. Sabugo, Director of the MMSU InnoTech Directorate, provided each staff member with a personal set of reusable food utensils.

The initiative encourages staff to reduce their reliance on disposable food containers and utensils in their daily activities. It also promotes sustainable habits within the workplace and supports the university's efforts to create a healthier campus environment.

Through simple activities such as shared meals and the use of reusable utensils, the InnoTech Directorate turned the ASEAN celebration into an opportunity to foster fellowship while promoting sustainable practices within the university community.

11/08/2026

𝗧𝗘𝗖𝗛 𝗧𝗥𝗜𝗨𝗠𝗣𝗛: 𝗠𝗠𝗦𝗨 𝗜𝗻𝗻𝗼𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗗𝗼𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗥𝟭 𝗧𝗲𝗰𝗵 𝗙𝗲𝘀𝘁

Two Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) innovations emerged among the top performers at the Region 1 Technology Pitch Fest 2026, highlighting the university's capacity to develop science- and technology-based solutions with strong potential for commercialization.

The pitching competition, held on August 5–6 at Pangasinan State University in Lingayen, Pangasinan, featured 13 technology pitchers from state universities and colleges across Region I under Food and Non-Food categories.

In the Food Category, Probiotic Vanilla Ice Cream by Johnmel A. Valerozo of MMSU secured first place. Developed using MMSU’s safe, isolated probiotic strain, this innovation combines the classic taste of vanilla with functional health benefits and reduced sugar content. It is a guilt-free treat and a healthier dairy alternative for children and youth. The technology also provides opportunities for product differentiation through the incorporation of locally sourced flavors.

Meanwhile, MMSU's National Bioenergy Research and Innovation Center (NBERIC) Nipahol Stove, presented by Jayson Cariaga, placed second in the Non-Food Category. A durable, gravity-fed clean cooking stove fueled by 95% v/v hydrous bioethanol sourced from local nipa sap and sugarcane bagasse. It is built for households and small businesses; this green alternative to conventional LPG can lower operating fuel costs by up to 70% while drastically reducing indoor air pollution and fossil fuel dependency.

The Region 1 Technology Pitch Fest serves as a bridge between academe and market adoption. MMSU’s strong performance underscores the university’s commitment to driving commercialization-ready technologies that directly address modern community challenges in health, agriculture, and sustainable energy.

06/08/2026

𝗡𝗘𝗪𝗦 | Laoag City, MMSU launch SHINE Innovation Caravan to boost MSMEs

By Anthony Joseph Duyao, 𝘊𝘰𝘯𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘣𝘶𝘵𝘰𝘳

The City Government of Laoag, in partnership with Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU), launched the SHINE Innovation Caravan on August 5, at Laoag City Hall to strengthen support for local micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

The innovation caravan, dubbed SHINE—Sustaining Homegrown Ilocano Networks and Enterprises of Laoag City—carries a name that aptly reflects Laoag's identity, as the city's name literally translates to "shine," and it is widely known as the “Sunshine City.” Bringing together various government agencies and stakeholders, the initiative aims to equip local Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) with training, strengthen business operations, and connect entrepreneurs with financial assistance, innovation support, and enterprise development opportunities.

Through SHINE, local entrepreneurs were introduced to funding opportunities, technical and regulatory assistance, entrepreneurial capability-building programs, trade and business networking initiatives, and a live market platform where they could showcase their products, generate sales, and gather direct consumer feedback.

In his message, Laoag City Mayor James Bryan Alcid expressed the city government's support for local entrepreneurs to grow through continuous capacity-building initiatives and business support programs.

"In business, you should always look for possible opportunities, and the City Government of Laoag will always be here to support you by providing the necessary programs and training for our local MSMEs," Mayor Alcid said.

Representing MMSU President Virgilio Julius P. Manzano, MMSU Vice President for Administration and Finance Fides Bernardo Bitanga emphasized the university's assurance of support to homegrown enterprises through research, extension, and innovation.

"I'm here to assure everyone that MMSU 100% supports the homegrown entrepreneurs of Laoag City and Ilocos Norte. We are making ourselves available and open to you. Explore our research and extension programs. We have the facilities and a strong list of experts who can help you develop and improve your products," he said.

The caravan also featured resource speakers from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Ilocos Norte, Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Ilocos Norte, Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Ilocos Norte, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Ilocos Norte, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Ilocos Norte, Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise Office (PGIN-MSMEO), and the MMSU Innovation and Technology (InnoTech) Directorate.

Participants received information on government livelihood grants, enterprise development programs, technology and packaging support, food safety and regulatory compliance, workforce training opportunities, market access initiatives, and business incubation services designed to help startups establish and sustain their enterprises.

Meanwhile, local businesses, including incubatees of the MMSU Technology Business Incubator (TBI), showcased their products during the caravan, allowing participants, visitors, and potential investors to discover locally developed products and innovative business offerings.

The SHINE Innovation Caravan is part of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signed by the City Government of Laoag and MMSU on May 4, aiming to strengthen innovation, capacity-building, and enterprise development programs that will help local MSMEs become more competitive and sustainable.

https://www.mmsu.edu.ph/article/news/3121/laoag-city-mmsu-launch-shine-innovation-caravan-to-boost-msmes

28/07/2026

𝗟𝗮𝗼𝗮𝗴 𝗠𝗦𝗠𝗘𝘀 𝗴𝗮𝗶𝗻 𝗜𝗣 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝘁𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝘀𝗸𝗶𝗹𝗹𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵 𝗠𝗠𝗦𝗨 𝗧𝗕𝗜 𝗶𝗻 𝗰𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗮𝗯𝗼𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗠𝗠𝗦𝗨 𝗜𝗣𝗧𝗕𝗠 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗖𝗦𝗪𝗗𝗢 𝗟𝗮𝗼𝗮𝗴

In celebration of National MSME Month this July, 15 local micro-enterprises in Laoag City took a big step toward securing their brand identities during the “Navigating IP Strategy & Trademark Classification” training held on July 27, 2026.

Organized by the Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU), through its Technology Business Incubator (TBI) and the Intellectual Property Technology Business Management (IPTBM), in partnership with the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) of the Local Government Unit of Laoag, the activity equipped local entrepreneurs with foundational IP knowledge and guided them in identifying appropriate trademark classifications to protect their visual identities in the market.

Before the training, the 15 incubatees collaborated with MMSU ATBI graphic artist Mr. Anthony Joseph Duyao to conceptualize and design distinct visual logos tailored to their unique products and values.
During the intensive IP Training, Engr. Artbellson B. Mamuri, chief of the MMSU University Intellectual Property and Technology Support Office (UITSO) facilitated an IP awareness session covering the fundamentals and key concepts related to patents, utility models, industrial designs, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets. The session helped participants understand the commercial value of protecting their business assets and identify the appropriate forms of IP protection for their enterprises.

Meanwhile, Mr. Bryll B. Atienza, project staff of the MMSU-IPTBM led the on-the-spot logo audit and trademark classification session. The facilitators guided participants in reviewing their existing logos and cross-referencing them against the IPOPHL Global Brand Database to identify potential conflicts and assess their brand identities.
The participants were also guided in determining the appropriate Nice Classification codes, preparing their digital branding assets for formal electronic filing with IPOPHL.

In addtition, Mrs. Perlita B. Cabello, Head of the CSWDO Laoag, delivered an inspirational message during the activity, underscoring the importance of continuous capacity-building and institutional support in helping local entrepreneurs strengthen their businesses. Her message highlighted the value of collaboration among government offices and partner institutions in providing MSMEs with the knowledge, resources, and opportunities needed to develop sustainable and competitive enterprises.

Equipped with practical IP knowledge, these entrepreneurs recognize that securing a trademark is far more than legal compliance; it builds consumer trust, adds commercial value, and creates lasting brand equity. Through this ongoing partnership between MMSU and CSWDO Laoag, local micro-enterprises are well-positioned to transition from survival-oriented operations into competitive, market-ready, and sustainable ventures.

20/07/2026

𝗙𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗙𝗮𝗯𝗿𝗶𝗰 𝘁𝗼 𝗙𝗮𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗼𝗻: 𝗠𝗠𝗦𝗨 𝗧𝗕𝗜, 𝗖𝗦𝗪𝗗𝗢 𝗟𝗮𝗼𝗮𝗴 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻 𝗟𝗼𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗦𝗲𝘄𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗘𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗽𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗲𝘀

To enhance the technical competencies and entrepreneurial capabilities of local sewing practitioners and fashion entrepreneurs, the Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) Innovation and Technology Directorate – Technology Business Incubation (TBI), in partnership with the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) of the Local Government Unit of Laoag City, conducted the two-day Skills and Product Development Training on Sewing and Fashion Design on July 16–17, 2026, at the CSWDO Training Hall.

The training brought together members of the Sinag Inabel Clothing Cooperative, Mangato Quilters, Caoacan Quilters, and INCavit Abel Apparel to strengthen their skills in apparel production, product development, and fashion innovation, while promoting the use of locally woven Abel fabric in contemporary clothing and accessories.

The program forms part of the continuing efforts of MMSU TBI and CSWDO Laoag to empower local micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) by equipping them with market-oriented technical skills, encouraging innovation, and enhancing the competitiveness of locally produced fashion products. It also supports the preservation and promotion of Abel weaving by integrating the indigenous textile into modern apparel and accessory designs.

Prof. Gloria T. Torres, served as the resource speaker on the first day of training. She discussed opportunities in local and sustainable fashion, fabric classification, and product development using Abel fabric. Under her guidance, participants explored current fashion trends, identified market opportunities, and gained a deeper understanding of textile selection.

These lecture sessions were complemented by hands-on workshops, where participants learned pattern drafting, material preparation, cutting, sewing, assembly, and finishing techniques. The session culminated in the development of prototype apparel and accessory products using Abel fabric, applying proper garment construction methods and quality standards.

On the second day, Mx. B**g Paulino, Mx. Barry Andres, and Mr. Arnel Taylan Esteban facilitated sessions on product innovation, design development, value addition, and cultural branding. Participants refined their prototypes, explored strategies to improve market appeal, and developed branding concepts that showcased the cultural significance of Abel fabric and local craftsmanship.

The training concluded with a product presentation, where participants showcased their finished products and received feedback from the facilitators. Certificates were awarded to participants who successfully completed the program.

Through initiatives such as this, MMSU TBI and CSWDO Laoag continue to strengthen local creative enterprises by developing the technical skills, innovation capacity, and entrepreneurial mindset of sewing practitioners and fashion entrepreneurs. The program reinforces both institutions' commitment to supporting sustainable livelihoods, preserving cultural heritage, and promoting the growth of the local creative economy through innovation-driven enterprise development.

20/07/2026

📣 LISTEN TO OUR EPISODE WITH: Mikiloco Instant Noodle Processing! (Live at MMSU Technology Business Incubator in Batac, Ilocos Norte!)

Here's the full conversation!
🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/74YhdAPCJy3lebike73ZBy?si=pAQC3Ah9Sbipk_Kk8z6bKA
📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i2InAa3MGh0

Mikiloco Instant Noodles Processing is a food processing startup engaged in the production of locally made instant “miki” noodles inspired by Ilocano cuisine. The enterprise develops flavored instant noodle products such as chicken, shrimp, and beef variants and focuses on bringing convenient, locally sourced noodle products to the market.

This episode is co-produced by Symph, Onecfo PH, Yspaces, Kredit Hero, Twala, GigGenius Freelance Marketplace, SkoolTek by EdFolio, and Red Circle Global.

10/07/2026

LATE POST: Two weeks ago, Start Up Podcast PH went to Ilocos!!! 🌟🌟🌟

We did podcast interviews with SIX startups and the institutions elevating the startup ecosystem in Ilocos region! Thank you Mariano Marcos State University (Batac, Ilocos Norte)!!! Don't sleep on Ilocos innovations!! 🚀🚀

- Adones Integrated Farm: farm in Ilocos at the forefront of farming trends, with products such as tanglad juice and pickled eggs from MMSU research!
- Ilocandia Unli Weave Patterns: using mathematical algorithms to elevate and add variety to traditional cultural weaving heritage
- Mikiloco Instant Noodle Processing: Ilocos Miki turned to instant noodles to savor that Ilocano cuisine wherever you are (personally tried it and ang sarap!!!)
- ESM Manufacturing Integrated: innovations in ceramics engineering such as their thin coating slip, helping the pottery industry in Ilocos
- Padalan Workshop : custom-made tote bags, Inabel pouches, and scrunchies from upcycled fabrics
- Rayuray Farmers Agriculture Cooperative: brown rice krispies!!!
- MMSU Innovation and Technology Directorate, MMSU Technology Business Incubator, MMSU Agri-Aqua Technology Business Incubator: we talked about how innovation and technology in Ilocos is being taken to the next level!

Episodes will be released one by one in YouTube and Spotify starting tomorrow! Stay tuned!!

Meanwhile, subscribe so you don't miss the episodes:
📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/startuppodcastph
🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6BObuPvMfoZzdlJeb1XXVa

Let's continue inspiring more Filipino entrepreneurs and innovators! 🌠

10/07/2026

✈ WATCH OUT FOR THE NEXT EPISODE: Adones Integrated Farm! (Live at MMSU Technology Business Incubator in Batac, Ilocos Norte!)

Adones Integrated Farm is an integrated agricultural enterprise located in Barangay Payao, Batac City, Ilocos Norte. The farm practices diversified and sustainable farming systems, including crop cultivation, livestock production, and the conservation of indigenous food plants. It also serves as a demonstration and training site for farmers, students, and agro-entrepreneurs interested in sustainable agriculture practices.

Let's watch together tomorrow 6pm!
📺 Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/StartUpPodcastPH
🎧 Follow on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6BObuPvMfoZzdlJeb1XXVa

This episode is co-produced by Symph, Onecfo PH, Yspaces, Kredit Hero, Twala, GigGenius Freelance Marketplace, SkoolTek by EdFolio, and Red Circle Global.

08/07/2026

Meet the Faces Behind Innovation!

Get to know the passionate leaders who are driving innovation forward at the Innovation and Technology Directorate!

We are proud to introduce our current and newly designated Director and Chiefs of Offices, whose expertise and leadership will help advance the University's mission of transforming research into innovative products, technologies, and solutions that create lasting impact.

From technology transfer and commercialization to business incubation, fabrication, product development, and quality assurance, each unit plays a vital role in turning great ideas into real-world innovations that serve our communities and industries.

Join us in welcoming and congratulating our leaders as we continue to foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and excellence, one breakthrough at a time.

Together, we innovate. Together, we create impact.

05/06/2026