Outstanding regional partners and innovators were recently recognized by the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD) during the event, “RAISE Spotlight: A Night of Recognition and Collaboration” or RAISE Partners’ Night. Held on October 13, 2025 in Hotel Casiana in Tagaytay City, the event marked one of the highlights of the Regional Agri-Aqua Innovation System Enhancement (RAISE) Summit Week 2025, themed, “Building Bridges through Alignment, Connection, and Synchronization for Agri-Aqua Innovation.” The activity gathered RAISE implementers, regional representatives, and agri-aqua innovation leaders for an evening of recognition, gratitude, and celebration.
DOST-PCAARRD Executive Director Reynaldo V. Ebora opened the night by delivering a message of gratitude, highlighting how collaboration and shared purpose fuel the success of the RAISE Program across the regions. “The technology transfer initiatives of DOST-PCAARRD have progressed significantly because of your strong support and shared vision. Together, we are ensuring that innovations truly make a difference where it matters most,” Dr. Ebora shared.
Recognizing regional excellence
The evening showcased videos developed by the RAISE implementers and a creative presentation of regional milestones, partnerships, and success stories in advancing agri-aqua innovation and enterprise development. These videos are published on the DOST PCAARRD Facebook page and played during the week-long activities. Among the finalists were the RAISE programs in Western Visayas, Southern Tagalog, Central Luzon, and Western Mindanao.
The Best RAISE Regional Video Award was conferred to RAISE Western Mindanao, recognized for creative excellence and impactful storytelling that captured the spirit of innovation and collaboration in the region.
Executive Director’s Awards: Honoring Partners in Innovation
A series of Executive Director’s Awards were also presented to recognize exceptional institutions for their performance in technology commercialization, incubation, and intellectual property achievements under the RAISE Program.
- Outstanding ATBI – Basic & Advanced Category: Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU)
- Outstanding ATBI – Acceleration & Internationalization Category: Isabela State University (ISU)
- Excellence in Technology Commercialization (Patent/Utility Model): Cavite State University (CvSU)
- Top Revenue in Technology Commercialization (Patent/Utility Model): Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U)
- Top Revenue in Technology Commercialization (Non-Patent/Utility Model): Central Luzon State University (CLSU)
- Top Patent Grant Achiever: Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice)
- Best Regional RAISE Implementer: RAISE Western Visayas (Region 6)
Each awardee received a Plaque of Recognition, Certificate of Excellence, and a cash prize of ₱10,000.00, presented by Dr. Ebora along with DOST-PCAARRD Deputy Executive Director for R&D Juanito T. Batalon, Deputy Executive Director for Administration, Resource Management and Support Services Melvin B. Carlos, and Technology Transfer and Promotion Division (TTPD) Director Noel A. Catibog.
A Toast to RAISE Achievements
The celebration also featured musical performances by Mr. Brence Chavez of ABS-CBN Star Music and Ms. Eunice E. Eugenio of DOST-PCAARRD TTPD, followed by “Raise Your Glass: A Toast to RAISE Achievements” led by Dr. Carlos.
In his toast, Dr. Carlos emphasized the importance of sustained partnerships and innovation-driven collaboration in building a more resilient and inclusive agri-aqua innovation ecosystem.
Dr. Juanito T. Batalon formally concluded the event. He encouraged the RAISE partners to continue strengthening regional networks and scaling local innovations for national impact. Participants were invited to an open networking and social function—continuing the spirit of connection and collaboration that defines the RAISE Program.
