Enverga University makes history with 3 regional finalists in Philippine Startup Challenge 10

Manuel S. Enverga University Foundation marked a milestone as three student teams were named among the Top 15 regional finalists of the Philippine Startup Challenge X, announced on Oct. 23, 2025, through the DICT IV-A Facebook page.

Out of 101 entries across the region, MSEUF emerged as the institution with the most number of finalists, solidifying its position as a strong hub for student innovation.

The finalists presented their startup ideas live at the Provincial Cooperative Development Center in Batangas City, where a panel of judges provided questions, feedback, and improvement suggestions to each team, Nov. 4. 

Team CEO, composed of John Leo Echevaria, Johan Sebastian Catalla, and Princess Nicole Oriola, developed Eventure — an AI-powered event planner that connects suppliers, vendors, and event organizers. The team secured 6th place overall.

Team NGANI, composed of Jase Gerald Arquiza, Prince Raily Laurel, and Ace Vincent Gamitin, pitched Gala — an AI-based traveler’s platform that connects tourists with local guides. The team received the Best Startup Logo Award and ranked 8th.

Team VGA Labs, composed of Angelica Grace Pacaigue, Voltaire Parraba, and Grechelle Ann Boneo, presented Linkod — an AI-driven employment platform that connects PWDs and skilled workers to service clients. The team earned 12th place among the finalists.

All teams were mentored by John Rover Sinag, who expressed pride in his students’ achievement after years of effort.

“During the last two years, my mentees were not able to qualify as regional finalists for the Philippine Startup Challenge. But this year, three groups of young innovators made it! It was such an honor to mentor these equally talented students,” Sinag said.

The teams also received support from the Research Publication, Incubation, and Utilization Center (RPIUC) headed by Engr. Roselyn Maaño with staff Gladys Morales, who guided the student innovators throughout the competition.

The achievement reflects MSEUF’s growing presence in the national innovation ecosystem and its dedication to empowering students to develop real-world, tech-driven solutions that address societal needs.

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This accomplishment demonstrates MSEUF’s commitment to Excellence, Innovation, and Unity by nurturing young minds to apply research and technology in solving real-world problems.

Related UN SDGs:

• SDG 4: Quality Education – encourages experiential learning and innovation through competitions.

• SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – promotes entrepreneurial mindsets and startup development.

• SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – supports technology-driven solutions addressing community needs.

• SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – fosters collaboration between academia, government, and industry for innovation and growth.