The focus group discussion took place on July 4, 2025 at the UPLB Technology Transfer and Business Development Office (TTBDO), during which the ASCEND Program Team convened discussions with UPLB TTBDO representatives. The main objective of the meeting is to collect  comments and invaluable experiences with respect to the proposed framework for industry-academe collaboration under ASCEND project. 

The attendees included Engr. Albert Samuela of Samahan sa Pilipinas ng mga Industriyang Kimika (SPIK), Ms. June Villasanta and Ms. Geraldine Buela, of the Board of Investments (BOI),  and Ms. Cathrene Amante and Ms. Maria Elaidia C. Barria-Briones of UPLB TTBDO, under the guidance of Dr. Emil Cabrera, the TTBDO Director. The conversation centred on how best to work together to effectively connect academic research with industry challenges to create lasting impact and sustainability in a sector as vital as chemicals. 

The strategic meeting was held to enhance the ASCEND initiative ensuring its continued success and relevance in the future.