Tacloban City, Philippines – Samar Colleges, Inc. proudly participated once again in the 2nd Startup Eastern Visayas Regional Conference on July 6, 2026, at Summit Hotel in Tacloban City, Leyte, reaffirming its commitment to fostering a strong and collaborative startup ecosystem in Eastern Visayas. The conference brought together startup founders, government agencies, and ecosystem enablers from across the region to strengthen partnerships and advance innovation-driven initiatives.
Dr. John Glenn D. Ocaña, Regional Director of DOST Regional Office VIII, officially welcomed the participants by emphasizing the true mission of USWAG — to forge stronger collaborations for startup initiatives and move toward building market-ready enterprises. Quoting the organization's rallying call, "USWAG kita nga tanan," he stressed that the consortium's roadmap is not solely for Samar State University and DOST but for the entire Eastern Visayas region. He further emphasized that no member of the consortium should be left behind.
Dr. Palencia then reaffirmed his unwavering support for the region's startup ecosystem. This was followed by the presentation of the consortium's rationale by Dr. Vivian L. Moya, Director for Innovation of Samar State University.
Subsequently, Engr. Fernando S. Macabare III, SSU ReSEED/USWAG Project Staff Level 3, presented the revised five-year USWAG Development Roadmap. The presentation incorporated the recommendations and comments gathered during the first consortium meeting held on May 14, 2026, at the DOST Regional Office VIII. Engr. Macabare introduced a more streamlined roadmap while maintaining effective strategies to achieve the consortium's long-term goals.
At the heart of the conference were discussions on various programs and initiatives aimed at strengthening the region's startup ecosystem. Representatives from DOST, DEPDev, DICT, and DTI shared their respective programs, strategies, and support mechanisms for startup founders and ecosystem enablers. Through data-driven presentations and success stories, the speakers highlighted the tangible outcomes of collaborative efforts in advancing innovation and entrepreneurship across the region.
"No matter how innovative the product is, if it is not marketable, it will not be recognized," said Ms. Geselle Frances P. Zeta, Chief of the Development Research, Communications, and Advocacy Division of DEPDev Region VIII. She emphasized that even the most groundbreaking innovations can fail to gain traction without effective marketing strategies, underscoring the importance of understanding market needs and effectively communicating a product's value to its intended audience.
Likewise, Engr. Florentino L. Quiñones Jr., Innovation Focal of DOST Regional Office VIII, inspired participants with a practical reminder: “Don't wait for the idea to be perfect to execute it." Underscoring how innovation begins with action rather than perfection.
The event also featured testimonial session from startup founders, Dr. Michael A. Machica of Machica Group and Dr. Joemar C. Taganna of Paytaca, Inc.
A panel discussion followed, moderated by Dr. Jonas P. Valles, Vice President for Research, Extension, and Innovation of Leyte Normal University. The discussion explored the complementary roles of government agencies, higher education institutions, and industry partners in creating a seamless pathway from startup ideation to commercialization.
The conference concluded with Engr. Felisa E. Gomba, Vice President for Research, Extension, and Innovation for Development of Samar State University, encouraging participants to continue working together to develop innovations that create meaningful impact.
"The real work begins when we return to our respective institutions," Engr. Gomba said.