09/11/2025
๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐ ๐
The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Region IX and BASULTA successfully concluded the Philippine Startup Challenge (PSC) X Regional Pitching Competition held virtually via Zoom on November 6, 2025.
This yearโs competition drew an impressive 64 startup entries from across Zamboanga Peninsula, Isabela City, Basilan, and Sulu, showcasing the regionโs growing passion for innovation and technology-driven solutions. After a rigorous series of eliminations, 18 promising startups advanced to the regional finalsโeach presenting their innovative ideas before a distinguished panel of judges.
๐ Regional Champion & Best Startup Video Pitch: OA Knee-mo! (Ateneo de Zamboanga University)
๐ฅ 1st Runner-Up & Best Startup Logo: Myosug (Ateneo de Zamboanga University)
๐ฅ 2nd Runner-Up: Energy Tech (Sibugay Technical Institute, Inc.)
๐ก 3rd Runner-Up: Rooted (Jose Rizal Memorial State University โ Tampilisan)
โ๏ธ 4th Runner-Up: Online Case Filing and Management System for VAWC (Saint Columban College)
โจ The College of Information, Communication, and Trade Technology (CICTT) of Basilan State College also proudly showcased its innovative spirit through three outstanding teams:
Weavora (EthniTek)
BASTORIA (GAHI)
Rentora (ADL)
Though they did not make it to the top spots, their participation reflects the unwavering creativity, teamwork, and determination of CICTT students to develop tech-driven solutions that uplift communities and empower local industries. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all teams and mentors for representing Basilan State College with excellence and passion! ๐ช๐ป
Inspiring messages were shared by Director Cheryl C. Ortega, Regional Director of DICT Region IX and BASULTA, and Aris B. Austria, Chief of the Administrative and Finance Division, who commended the participantsโ innovation and drive for impact.
The Philippine Startup Challenge stands as DICTโs flagship innovation program, empowering students and young professionals to create technology-based solutions addressing real-world challenges.
DICT Region IX and BASULTA express their deepest gratitude to all participating schools, mentors, and evaluators who made PSC X Region IX a remarkable success. Together, we continue to empower countryside innovators and nurture a thriving startup ecosystem in Western Mindanao. ๐โจ