The Eastern Visayas Food Innovation Center (EVFIC) marked its 10th year of transformative work in food research and enterprise development through the 2025 EVFIC Business Forum, carrying the theme “Building Bridges: The EVFIC’s 10-Year Collaborative Approach for Food Innovation and Regional Development.”
The event gathered government agencies, researchers, industry partners, and MSMEs to celebrate a decade of breakthroughs and strengthen regional ties in food innovation.
Dr. Lydia M. Morante, Vice President for Administration, Finance and Auxiliary Services formally welcomed the participants on behalf of EVSU President Dr. Dennis C. De Paz, setting the tone for a day focused on collaboration and future-forward strategies. This was followed by a message of support delivered by Dr. Danilo B. Pulma, Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension Services, who highlighted the institution’s continuing commitment to advancing research and innovation ecosystems in the region.
To frame the program, Prof. Bernard Q. Membrebe, Director for Research and EVSU Center Director for EVFIC, presented the rationale and objectives of the forum. He emphasized EVFIC’s growth over the past decade, from enhancing food processing capabilities to empowering local entrepreneurs through accessible technologies, industry linkages, and capacity-building programs.
A key highlight of the event was the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing ceremony, which formalized strengthened partnerships among EVSU, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), EVFIC, partner agencies, and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The agreement aims to deepen cooperation in technology transfer, research, and commercialization.
Showcasing EVFIC’s expanding portfolio, Prof. Mark Rembert M. Patindol, Operations Manager of EVFIC, conducted a pitching session on the Center’s commercializable technologies, with special focus on innovations in dried food processing. His presentation underscored the potential of locally developed technologies to support regional industries and stimulate economic growth.
The forum also served as a networking avenue, enabling participants to explore collaborative opportunities across research, business development, and value chain enhancement.
In the latter part of the program, Dr. Isabelita M. Pamposa, DOST EVFIC Focal Person, delivered a synthesis of insights and the way forward, highlighting the importance of deepened inter-agency collaboration, stronger support systems for MSMEs, and continued investment in research and technology commercialization. She encouraged stakeholders to remain committed partners in ensuring that EVFIC continues to serve as a catalyst for regional development and inclusive growth.
A panel discussion and open forum capped the event, giving attendees a platform to raise insights and explore challenges in the evolving landscape of food innovation.
As EVFIC looks toward its next decade, the forum reaffirmed its vital role as a bridge between science and industry—advancing food technology, nurturing partnerships, and shaping resilient regional development.
This article is aligned with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 02: Zero hunger;
via JF Ruedas | UMDC
photos by MSP | UMDC
