An online event held on June 3, 2025, brought together key figures from the chemical industry and the academe to discuss strategies for enhancing collaboration and innovation. The event was attended by Engr. Albert Samuela, External Vice President of the Samahan sa Pilipinas ng mga Industriyang Kimika (SPIK), Ms. June Villasanta, and Ms. Geraldine Buela from the Board of Investments DTI and Dr. Emil Cabrera, Ms Eunice Algar and Ms Elai Briones of the UPLB Technology Transfer and Business Development Office (TTBDO).

The primary objective of the meeting was to leverage the extensive experience of the UPLB TTBDO in commercializing innovation and facilitating collaboration between the chemical industry and academic institutions. This initiative is part of the broader efforts of the Philippine Chemical Industry Roadmap working group, which operates under the ASCEND (Accelerating Schools and Chemical Industry Engagements for Nurturing Development) program.

During the event, participants discussed the development of a comprehensive playbook that would include recommended processes and tools to effectively facilitate collaborative projects and engagements between the chemical industry and the academe. The playbook aims to streamline the process of innovation commercialization and foster a more robust partnership between these two sectors.

Engr. Albert Samuela emphasized the importance of this collaboration, stating, “The synergy between the chemical industry and academic institutions is crucial for driving innovation and development. By working together, we can create a more dynamic and competitive chemical industry in the Philippines.”

Ms. June Villasanta and Ms. Geraldine Buela highlighted the role of the Board of Investments DTI in supporting such initiatives and ensuring that the necessary resources and support are available to facilitate these collaborations.

The event concluded with a commitment from all parties to continue working together to achieve the goals outlined in the Philippine Chemical Industry Roadmap and to ensure the successful implementation of the ASCEND program.

This online event marks a significant step forward in strengthening the ties between the chemical industry and the academe, paving the way for more innovative and collaborative projects in the future.