USM Student Innovators Dominate Region XII DICT Startup Pitching

Two student teams from the University of Southern Mindanao (USM) brought pride to the institution after their big wins at the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Philippine Startup Challenge 10 Regional Pitching Competition (Region XII) held on October 27, 2025, at The Habi Hotel, Koronadal City, South Cotabato.

Both USM teams are incubatees of the USM Adaptable Research Technology Business Incubator (USMart TBI), an initiative that helps students and startups turn innovative concepts into market-ready solutions through mentorship, business support, and access to funding opportunities.

Team AiGenZ earned the Overall Champion title and will represent Region XII in the upcoming National Philippine Startup Challenge 10. The team is composed of Azie Tranquellero, Ariel Duke Castillon, and Jacqueyah Tando, with their coach Prof. Carlito P. Basay Jr. Their startup proposal integrates artificial intelligence to enhance modern systems and processes.

Team Project Deep Green, represented by Anjuvh Baldwin J. Yguinto, Lloyd Rainier P. Vitudio, and Rachel Joy P. Pacot, with mentor Prof. Ryan Z. Gonzaga, earned the 3rd Runner-Up spot among eight regional finalists. The team stood out for its sustainable approach and commitment to environmental innovation.

The competition gathered the young innovators across region 12, showcasing technology-driven ideas that address real-world challenges.

The participation of the two teams reflects the involvement of USM students in technology-based entrepreneurship. Their entry into the DICT Startup Challenge forms part of the ongoing initiatives that support innovation and startup development in the region.

Team AiGenZ will advance to the national level of the competition, where they will compete with other top startup teams from various regions across the country.