Manila, Philippines, June 4, 2025. What begins as a seed—an idea, a dream, a hope can grow into something transformative with enough care, courage, and collaboration. This was the powerful narrative that unfolded during the culminating event of the SEED: Sustainable Ecotourism & Entrepreneurship Development program’s EcoViP Business Plan and Pitching Competition, held at the PUP M.H. del Pilar Campus.
After completing weeks of intensive training and ideation, the passionate teams stepped into the spotlight to present their sustainable business concepts, all rooted in ecotourism and environmental responsibility. The culminating competition includes eight multidisciplinary teams from various colleges — the College of Tourism, Hospitality and Transportation Management (CTHTM), College of Science (CS), and Institute of Technology (ITECH) —, the students pitched not only plans, but passion projects aimed at solving real-world problems through innovation and purpose-driven entrepreneurship.
Standing tall among them was the team behind “TahaK” — short for Tahanan sa Kalikasan. What began as a seed of hope in the minds of ordinary iskolar ng bayan grew into the winning idea of the competition, proving that from the halls of PUP, extraordinary things can grow. Team TahaK envisioned a nature-based community space where sustainability and culture meet. It wasn’t just a business plan—it was a heartfelt call to live in harmony with the environment. The team, led by Jovit C. Camata (CTHTM), along with Jiezel P. Costuna (CTHTM), Mark Alfred M. Ella (CTHTM), Eliza Rose R. Margallo (CS), and Buhawie F. Santos (ITECH), and mentored by Dr. David John Apigo. As champions, TahaK received monetary awards, certificates, and the esteemed honor of representing the PUP in the upcoming EcoViP Bootcamp in Vietnam.
Two other teams also impressed the panel. Eco Shoe-Dust, led by Pierre Giordan T. Nesas (CTHTM), presented a sustainable footwear idea using industrial dust and recyclable materials. The team, Justine Ogatis(CTHTM), Vince Bingayan (CS), Jean Malazarde (CS), and Charles Terrenal (ITECH), guided by Assoc. Prof. Luzviminda O. Tugade, took home the second runner-up prize. Meanwhile, Kubo Kupe-Kupehan (KKK), a concept rooted in Filipino cultural experiences and community coffee spaces, claimed third runner-up. The team, led by Karenette Tan (CTHTM), Via Marie Pabuaya (CTHTM), Gwen Ericka Balela (CTHTM), Cristine Adagio Oledan (CS), Nathaniel Dante (ITECH) and mentored by Assoc. Prof. Regina Zuniga, was commended for its cultural relevance and social vision.
The event was judged by a distinguished panel composed of Ms. Dianne Goldsberg, Engr. Armando Victoria, and Mr. Ezekiel Cabusao, who brought expertise in sustainability, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Their thoughtful feedback and encouragement provided not only direction but inspiration to all participants.
More than a competition, the event served as a reminder that real change begins with a single idea—a seed. With guidance, teamwork, and a commitment to purpose, these ideas can grow into ventures that make meaningful, lasting impact. As the EcoViP program continues to empower young changemakers, it also cultivates a future where sustainability is more than a goal—it is a shared responsibility, carried by those who dare to plant and nurture the seeds of change.
In the true spirit of iskolar ng bayan, the event was a celebration of what it means to be a PUPian —because in every PUPian, there was once just a seed — and today, many of them began to bloom.
