On August 18, 2025, the Event Center at Balon Bayambang became a hub of innovation, collaboration, and inspiration as the Panamaanta Caravan 2025 reached the vibrant academic community of Bayambang Polytechnic College (BPC) with 700 students. Organized by the DOST–PSU Aligwas Technology Business Incubator (TBI), the caravan aimed to promote awareness on technology-driven entrepreneurship, empower aspiring innovators, and build stronger linkages between academic institutions and enterprise enablers in Region I.
The program formally opened with the Welcoming Remarks from Dr. Razeale G. Resultay, Vice President for Research, Extension, and Innovation of Pangasinan State University (PSU). Her message set the tone by highlighting PSU’s commitment to extending innovation and entrepreneurial education across partner institutions.
This was followed by two powerful Inspirational Messages from academic leaders:
- Dr. Rafael Limueco Saygo, President of Bayambang Polytechnic College, who expressed his gratitude for the partnership and encouraged BPC students to pursue technology-based ventures as future solutions to societal challenges.
- Dr. Elbert M. Galas, University President of PSU, who emphasized that collaboration among HEIs is crucial in attaining regional innovation goals and building a strong startup ecosystem in Pangasinan.
To contextualize the purpose of the caravan, the Rationale of the Activity was presented by Dr. Gloria M. Ducut, DOST–PSU Aligwas TBI Core Member. She expounded on the role of Technology Business Incubators (TBIs) in supporting early-stage innovators, transforming raw ideas into viable business ventures.
Two major knowledge-sharing sessions followed:
- Startup 101
Facilitator: Engr. Roy R. Flores, DOST–PSU Aligwas TBI Core Member
This session introduced participants to the fundamentals of entrepreneurship—idea validation, market fit, business model design, and sustainability. Students and faculty were encouraged to shift their mindsets from job-seeking to opportunity-creating. - PSU Aligwas TBI Orientation
Presenter: Dr. RoseAnne Jane C. Agustin-Cera, PSU TBI Head/Project Leader
Dr. Agustin-Cera presented the programs, services, and incubation pathways offered by PSU Aligwas TBI, including mentorship, funding linkages, prototyping support, IP assistance, and startup acceleration.
An Open Forum followed, allowing students, educators, and aspiring innovators to ask questions and share insights with the speakers. Queries focused on startup funding, intellectual property, and how to gain entry into the incubation program. The exchange of ideas reflected a growing enthusiasm for innovation within the BPC community.
The event concluded with the Closing Remarks from Engr. Jeff G. Pereyras, Director of the PSU Innovation and Technology Support Office (ITSO). He encouraged the participants to apply their learnings, begin taking concrete steps toward developing their own innovations, and continue engaging with PSU Aligwas TBI for guidance.
The Panamaanta Caravan not only served as an educational initiative but also significantly strengthened institutional partnerships. By officially inviting Bayambang Polytechnic College as a caravan host, Pangasinan State University reaffirmed its mission to expand its innovation network and nurture a collaborative startup ecosystem across higher education institutions.
The event successfully gathered students, faculty, researchers, and aspiring entrepreneurs, fostering an environment of shared vision and mutual support. Participants expressed a newfound interest in pursuing research commercialization and startup development—key indicators of the caravan’s transformative impact.
The Panamaanta Caravan 2025 at Bayambang Polytechnic College stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, education, and innovation-led community development. With the joint efforts of PSU, BPC, and DOST, the seeds of future startups have been planted in the hearts of young innovators. As the caravan continues its journey across Pangasinan, it carries with it a clear message:
Innovation begins where education meets opportunity.