On September 1, 2023, in commemoration of Baguio Day, TARAKI Summit 2023 marked a historic milestone in the advancement of regional innovation with the launch of the Innovation Alliance and the TARAKI 10x initiative. This landmark event featured a formal commitment signing by members of the Innovation Alliance and the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the University of the Philippines Baguio’s SILBI Technology Business Incubator (SILBI TBI) and five strategic partners, underscoring a dedicated commitment to innovation and sustainable development in Baguio City and the wider Cordillera region.
The Innovation Alliance and TARAKI 10x initiatives aim to catalyze the development of innovative solutions, forge partnerships, and spearhead transformative projects to address key challenges facing the region. The MOU signing represents an essential step toward promoting sustainability and fostering collaborative innovation, as SILBI TBI partners with the following entities:
- Baguio City Local Government Unit
- Center for Renewable Energy and Sustainable Technology (CREST)
- Rotary Club of Baguio
- Zero Waste Baguio, Inc.
- Exoasia Innovation Hub
The Summit convened prominent figures from Baguio’s innovation ecosystem, including Mayor Benjamin B. Magalong, Congressman Mark Go, Councilor Levy Orcales, and officials from the City Planning and Development Office. National and regional government representatives were also in attendance, with participation from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-CAR), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI-CAR), Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT-CAR), National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA-CAR), and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA-CAR).
Key representatives from higher educational institutions (HEIs) also played a pivotal role, with leaders from the University of Baguio, Mountain Province State Polytechnic College, University of the Philippines Baguio, and University of the Cordilleras. In addition, members of Baguio’s innovation ecosystem, such as Vivita Philippines – Vivistop Baguio, Session Groceries, Tingi Station, Dontog Technofarms, The Dulche’s, HeySuccess Virtual Assistance Services, and Sunshare, contributed to the success of the event.
TARAKI Summit 2023 emphasized the vital role of collaboration in building a resilient and forward-looking community committed to sustainable growth and regional development. Through shared knowledge, resources, and expertise, the Summit affirmed a collective vision to drive innovation and positive impact across the region.
TARAKI extends its deepest appreciation to all partners, attendees, and stakeholders whose contributions were integral to the success of this event. Their participation reflects a shared commitment to fostering a robust and sustainable future for Baguio City and the Cordillera region, demonstrating that through unified efforts, the region can achieve significant advancements in innovation and community well-being.
