In an era where innovation sets progress in motion, protecting ideas is as crucial as creating them. Cebu Technological University (CTU) Danao Campus underscored this principle during its two-day Intellectual Property and Technology Commercialization Workshop on May 26-27, 2025, at the Student Activity Center.
Organized by the Research and Development Office in collaboration with the Future Scientists and Technology Leaders of the Philippines (FSTLP), and co-sponsored by KaLambuaN Inc. and DOST-RAISE RATBI, the workshop gathered students, faculty, and industry mentors eager to learn how to transform their research into protected, market-ready innovations.
The event opened as Dr. Romel C. Mutya, Chairperson of the Research and Development Office, warmly welcomed all participants to the workshop. He emphasized the university’s commitment to supporting researchers at every stage of their journey. This set an inspiring tone for the sessions that followed.
Dr. Adrian P. Ybañez, Regional Chair of KaLambuaN Inc. and Project Leader of DOST-RAISE RATBI, challenged participants to think beyond academic requirements. “Innovation must be inclusive,” he said, “reaching communities, solving real problems, and being protected to thrive.”
Throughout the workshop, experts delivered practical, engaging sessions on key topics such as Technology Readiness Levels (TRL), Commercialization Readiness Levels (CRLs), and the essentials of licensing agreements. Engr. Naomi A. Bajao, University Director and Chair of the Innovation and Technology Support Office (ITSO), guided attendees through crafting effective elevator pitches and understanding the commercialization process.
Participants also gained hands-on insights into conducting prior art searches from Engr. Ray Malonjao, who highlighted the importance of ensuring originality in patent applications. Dr. Jivulter Mangubat demystified claims drafting, teaching how to legally define inventions with clarity and precision.
On the second day, enthusiasm grew as students and faculty actively engaged in discussions about patenting and protecting their ideas. Dr. James Paul G. Tamayo, ITSO expert, concluded the sessions with an overview of industrial design, software copyright, and trademark protection, sharing compelling real-world examples.
The workshop closed with remarks from Dr. Marlon D. Mata, former Chair of the Research and Development Office and the Mechanical Engineering Program, who reminded the attendees that “Innovation doesn’t stop at invention. You must guide it, guard it, and give it to the world.”
For many participants, the workshop was more than an educational event — it was a catalyst for a new mindset. Armed with certificates and newfound knowledge, students and faculty left inspired to protect and share their innovations, ready to contribute meaningfully to society.
CTU Danao’s commitment to nurturing and safeguarding innovation signals a promising future for its community of researchers and innovators. The seeds planted during this workshop are poised to grow and make a lasting impact.
– Research and Development Office
