La Union Young Innovators Shine in 1st ELYU INNOVATE Mentorship Session
By: Office of the Provincial Planning and Development Coordinator | Photos By: OPPDC | Date: May 7, 2025
More than 50 student participants from across the province took part in the first-ever La Union Innovative Networking Opportunities and Ventures in Agri-Tourism and Entrepreneurship (ELYU INNOVATE) Mentorship Session 2025, held virtually on May 7, 2025.
Organized by the Provincial Government of La Union (PGLU) through the Office of the Provincial Planning and Development Coordinator (OPPDC), the session aimed to guide student finalists of the SIKLAB Provincial Innovation Technology Challenge and Hackathon (SIKLAB PITCH) in refining their proposals by providing expert mentorship and insights into innovation, agri-tourism, and entrepreneurship.
The mentorship session served as a collaborative platform to equip young innovators not only with technical knowledge and effective pitching strategies but also with a deeper understanding of how their solutions can contribute to sustainable community development.
Kicking off the event was a message from Gov. Raphaelle Veronica "Rafy" Ortega-David, Provincial Governor and Chairperson of the Provincial Innovation Council (PIC), delivered by her Executive Assistant Dr. Eleazar Belgica. The Governor’s message underscored PGLU’s unwavering support for youth-led innovation in the province.
Students were inspired by brief but impactful stories shared by mentors, including Mr. Jan Erich Calderon, Founder of COLLABSPACE; Ms. Annalie L. Rosales, Mentor of SILLAG Region 1; and Prof. Victoria N. Malaya, Project Leader of the DMMMSU-Agri-Aqua Technology Business Incubator (ATBI). Their insights highlighted the real-world value of human-centered innovation, sustainable tourism, environmental stewardship, and local enterprise development.
During breakout sessions, the 12 finalist student teams presented their proposals and received real-time, constructive feedback from mentors. Coaches also joined the discussions to provide guidance and support. These engagements aimed to sharpen the students’ ideas in preparation for the final pitch.
Mr. Xavier B. Mercado, President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of La Union, Inc. and PIC Vice-Chairperson, delivered an inspirational message encouraging continued innovation and collaboration. This was followed by a student participant sharing highlights from the session, emphasizing learnings and renewed motivation. EnP Michaela Louise D. Javier, Provincial Planning and Development Coordinator, concluded the program with a strong reaffirmation of PGLU’s commitment to building a vibrant, inclusive innovation ecosystem in La Union.
The 1st ELYU INNOVATE Mentorship Session stands as a testament to La Union’s efforts to strengthen its innovation ecosystem through inclusive and youth-driven initiatives. By creating a space where young minds are heard, valued, and guided, the Province continues to pave the way for future leaders who are deeply connected to their communities.
With the mentorship session complete, participating teams are now preparing for the upcoming 2025 SIKLAB PITCH Competition, where winners will receive monetary prizes and extended mentorship to help bring their ideas to life.
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