USTP Panaon teams qualify for top 20 in Philippine Startup Challenge XI 2026 Region X
By James Francis Mendoza, BSIT Student, USTP Panaon
Share:
Two student-led startup teams from the University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines in Panaon, Misamis Occidental (USTP Panaon) qualified among the Top 20 teams in the Philippine Startup Challenge (PSC) XI 2026 Regional Pitching Competition for Region X, held on October 22, 2026, at Bukidnon State University, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon.
The teams, PELAGO and MARIS, are composed of Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT) students who presented their marine technology-focused startup concepts at the regional competition. Their qualification provided an opportunity to showcase their ideas, gain pitching experience, and engage with the regional startup ecosystem.
Organized by the Information and Communications Technology Development Bureau (ICTDB) of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Northern Mindanao, the competition brought together student innovators to present technology-driven solutions to real-world challenges.
PELAGO is composed of James Francis Mendoza, Paul B. Regalado, Wilson C. Navarez, Kim Adam Z. Blacer, and Janessa J. Sajulga, under the mentorship of Gizelle John M. Tacas-Tacas. Meanwhile, MARIS comprises Jerico M. Maghanoy, Mherafe P. Cabug, Johnlie A. Mamawe, Ma. Daisy L. Redera, and Marlou S. Duma-og, mentored by Warnner D. Amin.
With their focus on marine technology, the teams demonstrated how information technology can be applied to address challenges related to marine environments. Their participation also highlighted the potential of interdisciplinary innovation in developing solutions relevant to local communities and industries.
The achievement reflects USTP Panaon’s commitment to fostering student innovation, technical competence, and entrepreneurship. Through opportunities such as the Philippine Startup Challenge, the campus encourages students to apply their academic knowledge and develop technology-based concepts with potential real-world applications.
Follow us:
Contact us:
+63(88)857-1738 local 1118
[email protected]
