PANABO CITY – Davao del Norte State College (DNSC) officially launched its technology business incubator (TBI), Blue Economy Underpinning Global Sustainability through Adaptive Innovations (BUGSAI), on March 20, 2025, at the DNSC Gymnasium.
Funded by the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Council for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development (DOST-PCIEERD), the BUGSAI TBI is part of the Higher Education Readiness for Innovation and Technopreneurship program.
“The BUGSAI project benefits our community by fostering tech startups and innovative solutions that create new job opportunities, stimulate local economic development, ensure sustainable use of ocean resources through the Blue Economy,” College President Joy M. Sorrosa expressed during her welcome message.
The event also introduced the Lawig Business Incubation Program, which will support the TBI’s first cohort of startups. DOST-PCIEERD Executive Director Dr. Enrico C. Paringit commended the initiative, stating, “We applaud the dedication of the team and DNSC’s commitment to this mission. Through this TBI, we aim to develop technology-driven solutions that strengthen the Blue Economy.”
Around 150 stakeholders attended, including the DNSC community, government agencies, startup founders, mentors, regional TBI leaders, and tech organizations.
