ILOILO CITY — The Western Visayas Innovative Startup Fest 2026 reached its highly anticipated climax with the Startup Ecosystem Awards at SM Iloilo Terminal Market. The vibrant event highlighted the region's growing status as a premier innovation hub, showcasing the immense potential of local enterprises to drive economic growth.
Celebrating Regional Innovation
DTI-VI Acting Regional Director Mutya D. Eusores delivered the welcome message, emphasizing the critical role of regional collaboration. She expressed gratitude to partners advancing research, nurturing startups, and inspiring the next generation. Her words underscored a shared commitment to progress and inclusive development.
The culmination of the festival served as a powerful testament to the resilience and creativity of Western Visayas. It brought together founders, investors, and government leaders to celebrate a thriving ecosystem. This collaborative spirit is essential for sustained regional development and long-term prosperity.
A Theme of Growth and Collaboration
Anchored on the theme "Scaling the Region’s Startup Ecosystem: Enabling Founders, Driving Innovation," the awards recognized outstanding contributions. These initiatives strengthen the region's ability to support new businesses and foster economic development. It is a focused effort to build a future-ready economy.
The gathering served as a dynamic platform for networking and knowledge exchange. By bringing together key stakeholders, the event underscores the collective effort needed to build a resilient and interconnected entrepreneurial community. Participants left with renewed inspiration and actionable insights.
Honoring Outstanding Achievements
The awards spotlighted exceptional performance across various sectors. In the Outstanding Incubator category, the CAPSU Agri-Aqua Technology Business Incubator and BINHI TBI were recognized for their vital support. These incubators provide essential resources and mentorship to budding enterprises.
The Startup of the Year honors went to 7JF Steel Fabrication and Draft Master Innovation. Their innovative approaches and business models demonstrate the immense potential of local enterprises. Additionally, the Iloilo City Government was named Startup Champion in the Local Government Unit category.
These awardees exemplify the diverse range of innovation in the region, from agricultural technology to industrial fabrication. Their success stories serve as a beacon of hope for aspiring entrepreneurs. They prove that with the right support, local ideas can scale to national prominence and attract further investment.
The Rainmaker and Future Outlook
Mr. Daryl Lasafin received the prestigious Rainmaker award, recognizing his significant impact on the startup community. His efforts have opened doors and created opportunities for countless founders seeking to scale their ventures in the region. He is a true catalyst for change.
The DTI-VI extended its appreciation to UMWAD and all ecosystem partners for their dedication. Together, they continue to build a stronger, more connected, and innovation-driven Western Visayas. The future looks incredibly bright for the region's startup scene, promising sustained growth and opportunity.
