MSUN and ORO Chamber Strengthen Innovation Through Partnership in Misamis Oriental

Written by Dante Quiao Suminguit

Chambers of Commerce and state universities, through their IPTBM and ATBI programs, play a vital role in strengthening the province’s innovation ecosystem. By fostering strong collaboration, they bridge the gap between businesses and academic institutions, transforming research, new ideas, and emerging technologies into practical solutions that uplift industries and communities. These partnerships support entrepreneurs, enhance local enterprises, and create new opportunities for farmers, fisherfolk, and other key sectors in the province.

On March 7, 2025, a delegation from Mindanao State University at Naawan visited the Cagayan de Oro Chamber of Commerce & Industry Foundation, Inc. (ORO Chamber) to explore avenues for collaboration. The MSUN team was led by IPTBM Project Leader Prof. Floremie B. Apdian, together with Dr. Ruby Gonzales, Director for Technical and Support Services, and Prof. Karem A. Palmes, ATBI Project Leader.

The group met with ORO Chamber officials, Engr. Almarco C. Brito, Ms. Gemma Dela Vega-Emata, Engr. Peleberto D. Acut, Dr. Alfonso P. Alamban, and Ms. Queritess Q. Queja, to discuss potential partnerships. The dialogue centered on strengthening industry–academe linkages and promoting technology-driven agribusiness initiatives aimed at empowering entrepreneurs, farmers, and fisherfolk in Misamis Oriental.

As a continuation of this engagement, ORO Chamber officials are set to visit MSUN on March 21, 2025, to explore the university’s portfolio of technologies and identify collaborative opportunities that can drive local innovation and economic growth.