The FEU Tech Innovation Center (FTIC) successfully hosted “Talinong Lokal, Inobasyong Global: An FTIC All VIP Mixer,” an exclusive gathering that brought together partners, collaborators, mentors, and ecosystem enablers from across the Philippine startup community. Held as part of the #TamLabs Demo Day, the evening served as both a celebration and a reaffirmation of the shared commitment to building a stronger, more globally competitive innovation ecosystem powered by Filipino ingenuity.

The mixer highlighted the stories, struggles, and successes that define local startups—underscoring how Filipino creativity, resilience, and collaboration continue to resonate far beyond national borders.

The program opened with an inspiring message from Dr. Desiderio Apag III, Commissioner of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED). In his remarks, he emphasized how Filipino resilience and adaptability remain key drivers of transformative ideas, especially in an era where innovation and entrepreneurship play a critical role in national development.

His message reinforced the importance of higher education institutions and innovation hubs working together to nurture talents capable of addressing both local challenges and global opportunities.

Honoring Shared Purpose and Progress

Following the opening message, a ceremonial toast was led by Dr. Benson Tan, Senior Executive Director of FEU Tech. The toast honored the startup community’s unwavering passion for meaningful progress and recognized the collective effort of partners and collaborators who continue to believe in FEU Tech’s mission of nurturing ideas, innovators, and impact-driven ventures.

The moment served as a tribute to the trust and collaboration that fuel the growth of the Philippine startup ecosystem.

Building Connections Beyond Conversations

Adding a lighthearted and engaging element to the evening was a lively human bingo activity, designed to spark conversations, uncover shared interests, and encourage guests to form new connections. The activity transformed networking into a fun and interactive experience, reflecting FTIC’s belief that innovation thrives in environments where people feel connected, inspired, and open to collaboration.

Through meaningful interactions and shared laughter, the mixer strengthened relationships among stakeholders who play a vital role in shaping the country’s innovation landscape.

A Vision for the Future

The evening concluded with closing remarks from Rossana Adao, Executive Director of the FEU Tech Innovation Center. Her message centered on vision, collaboration, and hope, highlighting FTIC’s continued commitment to empowering innovators and building bridges between talent, industry, and opportunity.

Her closing remarks left guests with a renewed sense of purpose and optimism for a future driven by inclusive, sustainable, and globally relevant innovation.

Gratitude to Our Partners

The FEU Tech Innovation Center extends its heartfelt appreciation to its valued partners and sponsors for their continued support and belief in the Filipino innovation journey: FEU Nicanor Reyes Memorial Foundation, Bayan Academy, BPI Foundation, and Jollibee Foods Corporation.
Talinong Lokal, Inobasyong Global reflects FTIC’s vision of an innovation ecosystem rooted in Filipino identity while boldly engaging the global stage. Through collaboration, community, and shared purpose, the FEU Tech Innovation Center continues to champion ideas that inspire progress—locally and beyond.