Knowledge Manufacturing the Intersection of Research Horizons in VisayasIloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT-U)
ABOUT
Outline of the event
About Hyper Interdisciplinary Conference 2025 Iloilo Forum
The HIC 2025 Iloilo Forum, with the theme, “Knowledge Manufacturing the Intersection of Research Horizons in the Visayas”, encourages local researchers and scientists in the Visayan region to explore beyond their disciplines by providing a space for collaboration and exchange of insights with other researchers from different fields. Through this, the forum ultimately aims to unify R&D leaders to build a collective goal and direction for the research ecosystem in Visayas, ultimately addressing challenges in sectors such as marine, agriculture, natural resources, gastronomy, and medicine—the core strengths of Iloilo’s and Visayas’ economy.
Schedule
Friday, September 12, 2025 09:30-17:30
Venue
Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT-U) Iloilo City Philippines
We are excited to welcome a wide range of participants to the Hyper Interdisciplinary Conference—from researchers and entrepreneurs to corporate professionals, local factory representatives, government officials, and students from junior and senior high schools.
Researchers, students, educators, and junior and senior high school students affiliated with universities or other research institutions.
The Hyper Interdisciplinary Conference is open to all, but free of charge exclusively for participants affiliated with government and academic institutions.
We welcome attendees from all backgrounds including students, educators, researchers, professionals, and members of the general public. Whether you are from a university, research institute, local community, or simply interested in interdisciplinary collaboration, we encourage you to join us. Please note that only those affiliated with government or academic institutions are eligible for free, and all other participants may be subject to a registration fee.
Dr. Joval N. Martinez is a Professor of Microbiology at the University of St. La Salle, Bacolod, and Founder-CEO of Co-Lab Life Sciences, a pioneering private biotechnology company in Negros Island. He earned his PhD and completed postdoctoral research at Tokyo Metropolitan University and Hiroshima University, focusing on microbial ecology and microbial-based biotechnological solutions. His research centers on harnessing hot spring–derived bacteria for applications in agriculture, healthcare, and food innovation. Currently, he serves as Principal Investigator of a DOST-funded project under the Functional Food Program, working with academe and industry partners to advance biotechnology, sustainability, and inclusive regional development.
Dr. Concepcion Ponce
University of the Philippines VisayasAssociate Professor
Dr. Conception Ponce received here Phd in Chemistry at the University of Saskatchewan. She was one of the Leaders in Innovation Fellow 2020 by Royal Academy of Engineering, London UK, DOST, and Asian Instritute of Management, and was also recognized in University Innovation Fellow 2023 by the UP System. She is currently also the CEO of CirPro(Circular Process) Innovation Corp. a spinoff from the University of the Philippines Visayas which specializes in turning waste fruit peel into product that can be used in different industries.
Dr. Charmaigne Aguirre Eslabra
Philippine Science High School - Western Visayas CampusResearch Unit Head
Charmaigne A. Eslabra is a Special Science Teacher IV and Research Unit Head at the Philippine Science High School – Western Visayas Campus. A DOST HRDP scholar, she earned her PhD in Science Education (Mathematics) from West Visayas State University in 2024. She is a co-author of several DepEd Matatag K–10 compliant mathematics textbooks and teacher’s manuals published by Vibal Group, Inc. Since joining PSHSWVC in 2015, she has taught Mathematics, Statistics, and Research, and has coached students in competitions from division to national levels.
Dr. Yevgeny Aster Dulla
Leave a Nest Philippines, Inc.Managing Director
Yev was born and raised in Iloilo City, Philippines. He graduated with a degree in BS Chemistry from the University of the Philippines – Visayas, after which he worked as an instructor at the University of the Philippines – Manila. He came to Japan in 2013 to pursue graduate studies through the HIGO Program of Kumamoto University, and acquired his Masters in Health Life Sciences in 2015 and his PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences in 2018. He worked at a business consultancy company in Tokyo in 2019 to help bring biotechnology and medical companies from abroad into Japan. In 2020, he joined Leave a Nest Co., Ltd. and is currently under the Frontier Development Division. He is also a Balik Scientist Awardee for 2021, and is very passionate in helping accelerate science and technology in the Philippines, as he believes it will be the key to the country’s development
Mr. Đỗ Tùng Sơn
Alternō Pte.Client Success Manager
Đỗ Tùng Sơn is the Client Success Manager at Alternō, a climate-tech company in Asia that creates sand-based thermal battery systems. These systems store heat at high temperatures without producing emissions, helping industries like food, beverages, and agriculture reduce their use of fossil fuels. Sơn works closely with clients such as PepsiCo, Mondelez, Daiwa, to make sure each project runs smoothly-from planning and installation to With experience in IoT and sustainable energy, he focuses on making clean energy systems easy to use, reliable, and cost-effective. At Alternō, he also helps develop partnerships that bring renewable heat and electricity solutions to more industries. supports Alternō's 2030 goal of becoming a leading platform that combines renewable energy, heat-to-electricity technology, and smart energy management into one simple, affordable package
Ms. Soledad Santos Garibay is a Retired University Researcher from the Institute of Aquaculture, College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences, UP Visayas. For the past 10 years, her research projects have been devoted to microalgae studies, which have led to the development of Algal paste for aquaculture through the UPV-DOST-PCAARRD funded Program. Ms. Garibay initiated the commercialization of its R&D research output in 2018 through the Algacon Aquafeeds Manufacturing, the aqua-enterprise that produces the first Philippine made Algal Paste. As a researcher by heart, now turned Entrepreneur, Ms.Garibay continues to encourage her colleagues and the younger generation to pursue their technology commercialization as a way of promoting their own research output, translating research based technology into something beneficial for the industry. Ms. Garibay, is now actively engaged with the local aquaculture industry, focusing on the marketing aspect while providing technical know- how on the application of Algal Paste in Aquaculture.
Engr. Diogenes Armando Pascua, MSCA
Nodeleaf Inc.Chief Technology Officer
Diogenes is a professor at University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines and the Chief Technology Office of Nodeleaf Inc., a Davao-based tech company specializing in providing digital solutions to clients. He is pursuing a Doctor of Engineering at the University of San Carlos, focusing on marine energy applications. With a Master’s degree in Computer Applications, his research applies digital tools to the blue economy and affordable tech for underserved markets. As a startup founder and coach, he has led winning teams in national and global competitions like Fishackathon and Blue Food Challenge. Passionate about embedded systems and low-level AI, he is recognized as a World Economic Forum Uplink Innovator for his work in the Blue economy. Nodeleaf Inc. is a Davao based tech company specializing in providing digital solutions to clients. Shiftech marine is one of their brands for providing digital services and power solutions to marine clients.
Ms. Maria Aimee Sobrevega
Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Regional Office VIOIC - Fisheries Resources Management Section
MARIA AIMEE A. SOBREVEGA is currently the Officer in Charge of the Provincial Fisheries Office of Iloilo, Regional Fisheries Research and Development Center (RFRDC) and Regional Freshwater Fisheries Technology Center (RFFTC) at the same time, the OIC of the Fisheries Resources Management Section of the Fisheries Center (RFRDC) and Regional Freshwater Fisheries Technology Center (RFFTC) at the same time, the OIC of the Fisheries Resources Management Section of the Bureau of Fisheries and She brings extensive experience collaborating with fishing communities, local governments, and non-government organizations in the governments, and non-government organizations in the Visayas, advancing sustainable livelihoods through the Ecosystems Approach to Fisheries Management (EAFM). She has worked with BFAR for over a decade. She spent at least 10 years on two development projects in between her government work, the USAID Ecosystems Improved for Sustainable Fisheries (ECOFISH) Project and the Environment and Rural Development (EnRD) Programme of the German Agency for International Cooperation or (GIZ). She earned her Bachelor of Science in Fisheries from the University of the Philippines Visayas, a Diploma in Environment and Natural Resources Management from the University of the Philippines Open Management from the University of the Philippines Open University, and a Master's in Public Governance from West Visayas State University .
Mr. Ronrick Arayata
Leave a Nest PhilippinesDirector
Ronrick “Onic” Arayata is a citizen of the Republic of the Philippines living in the city of Tanza, province of Cavite. He graduated BS Physical Therapy at the University of the Philippines Manila in 2017 and passed the board exam in 2018, earning his license to work. Since then, he has worked in Cavite Diagnostic Stroke Care Center for three years treating mainly patients with stroke but was also able to handle various musculoskeletal and neurologic cases. He joined Leave a Nest as an intern in April 2021 to mentor TECH PLANTER finalists and decided to join the company right after.
Maxwen Ma
ADA Biotech Sdn. Bhd.Co-Founder & Chief Business Development Officer
Ms. Maxwen Ma, Co-Founder and Chief Business Development Officer of ADA Biotech, a Malaysian-based green innovation company transforming agricultural and industrial waste into high-quality biodegradable everyday products like drinking straws and eco-friendly cat litter. Driven by a mission to change lifestyles through sustainable biotechnology where luxury meets sustainability and promote circular economy solutions. ADA Biotech achieved a major milestone with over 100 million biodegradable rice straws sold in Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore and Fiji Island. Her passion for sustainability and entrepreneurship fuels her commitment to building a cleaner and greener future.
Jerduen "Noi" Dongor
Iloilo Coffee CouncilDirector
Jerduen “Noi” Dongor is an entrepreneur and coffee advocate. He is the CEO of Superhouse Solutions Café Corporation and founder of Coffee Brewtherhood, promoting specialty coffee and strengthening the local café community. He also leads Kape Iloilo, supporting farmers through fair trade and training. Beyond coffee, Noi works in hospitality, organizational development, and pest management, and is active in groups like the Iloilo Coffee Council, PCCI Iloilo, and the Philippine Coffee Board, championing MSMEs and sustainable tourism. A devoted husband and father, he enjoys traveling and exploring cultures through food and coffee.
Peter Paul Dayanan
Paul Kaldi CoffeeCEO & Founder
Peter Paul Dayanan is the Founder & CEO of Paul Kaldi Coffee, a social enterprise that champions sustainability and empowers farmers in Iloilo. Established in April 2024, Paul Kaldi connects communities through locally sourced beans, handcrafted brews, and innovative coffee experiences. Guided by the principle “Local farmers at our core, your taste at our heart,” Paul has expanded the brand from a campus coffee cart into a growing network of cafés, pop-ups, and specialty concepts. Through Paul Kaldi, he integrates education, farmer partnerships, and social impact—proving that coffee can be both a business and a movement for change.
Mr. Neil Clarence Diaz
Leave a Nest PhilippinesAssistant Manager
Neil Clarence C. Diaz, born and raised in Tacurong City, Sultan Kudarat, completed his senior high school at Mindanao State University – General Santos City and earned his bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, specializing in Artificial Intelligence, from West Visayas State University in Iloilo City. Passionate about science, innovation, and technology, he is committed to creating a positive impact on society. During his time in college, Neil co-founded and served as the pioneer CEO/President of SPARK Hub, a student organization that empowers students to transform their ideas into innovative solutions for societal benefit. He is also dedicated to breaking the stigma surrounding Artificial Intelligence as he develops AI-driven solutions that address community challenges. Now, as a member of Leave a Nest, Neil continues to extend his advocacy for science and technology from the university to the global stage.
Ms. Hannah Mae Balisi
Leave a Nest Philippines, Inc.Assistant Manager
In 2022, she earned a thesis award and graduated with a degree in Bachelor of Science Major in During her collegiate years, she was active in participating in the annual event of the Psychological Hannah became passionate in Psychology at a young age out of her curiosity in the complexity of the human mind. She is very ardent to change the preconceived notions about Psychology in the Philippines and gear the discipline towards a scientific-based approach. In March of 2023, she joined Leave a Nest Philippines to help advocate the use of science and technology to solve societal problems and to help In March of 2023, she joined Leave a Nest Philippines to help advocate the use of science and technology to solve societal problems and to help advance the understanding of science and technology in the Philippines.
Schedule
TIME
THEME
SPEAKER
09:00
SSB Hall
Registration
The event halls officially open to all participants. Upon completing your registration, you will receive a unique QR code. Kindly ensure that you have your QR code ready and present it at the registration booth to facilitate a smooth and efficient entry process.
09:30
SSB Hall
Opening Ceremony
- Flag Ceremony and Opening Prayer
- Opening Speech from Leave a Nest
- Welcoming Remarks from ISAT-U
09:50
SSB Hall
Keynote Speech and Keynote Panel Session
This session revolves around the theme of HIC 2025 Iloilo Forum - and reveals what kind of interdisciplinary trends there are in terms of the startup, university, and even high school level in the Visayas region. Knowing the different researches being done and technologies being developed allow a Knowing the different researches being done and technologies being developed allow a better understanding of the current ecosystem - and with this, allows even more interdisciplinary collaboration that could tackle issues in the present - Alongside this - we will also discuss how some of the panelists have tried venturing further than the usual researches that they are Alongside this - we will also discuss how some of the panelists have tried venturing further than the usual researches that they are challenging, and what kind of mindset that they have developed for this, to also encourage the audience to do the same.NEWS RELEASE
Dr. Joval Martinez, RMicro(Co-Lab Life Sciences)
Dr. Concepcion Ponce（University of the Philippines Visayas)
Dr. Charmaigne Aguirre Eslabra(Philippine Science High School - Western Visayas Campus)
[Moderator]
Dr. Yevgeny Aster Dulla(Leave a Nest Philippines, Inc.)
10:50
SSB Hall
Ignition Orientation
Session Partners:
Central Philippine University - CPUGAD
Introduction to the Ignition Workshop scheduled in the afternoon. This session provides participants with an interactive platform to tackle a challenge presented during the event. All attendees are invited to take part, collaborating in teams to design innovative and practical solutions aligned with the workshop’s theme. The session will conclude with team presentations in the afternoon, where the most viable and distinctive solution developed within the allotted time will be recognized with monetary awards.
11:00
SSB Hall
Research Splash
Research Splash presenters take the stage to deliver a 2 minute presentation highlighting their research. Presenters are encouraged to actively engage the audience and invite them to visit their respective poster booths in the afternoon for further discussion and exploration of their work.
11:45
SSB Hall
Lunch Break
12:45
Poster Hall
Poster Session
All event attendees are invited to explore the poster exhibits located near the main hall. During this session, Poster Judges will also be present to engage with exhibitors and ask questions regarding their work. Outstanding poster exhibits will be recognized with monetary awards.
13:45
Poster Hall
Poster Session
SSB Hall
Ignition Application Writing and Submission
14:00
SSB Hall
Panel Session 1:
Harnessing Thermal Innovations for Sustainable Aquaculture Solutions
Session Partners:
Alterno Pte., Ltd.
This session explores how innovations in the thermal industry, such as renewable energy integration, are driving more sustainable practices in aquaculture. As aquaculture becomes an increasingly vital contributor to global food security, the sector faces challenges such as high energy demands that impact environmental sustainability. Through our Session Partner, Alterno Pte., Ltd., we aim to highlight the practical applications of their sand battery in aquaculture and other industries, and discuss opportunities to accelerate their adoption across Southeast Asia and beyond. We will also be hearing the perspectives and insights of academic and government institutions in advancing these innovations, and envision how these thermal innovations can position aquaculture as a resilient and environmentally responsible food production system for the future.NEWS RELEASE
Ms. Maria Aimee Sobrevega(Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Regional Office VI)
[Moderator]
Mr. Ronrick Arayata(Leave a Nest Philippines)
15:20
SSB Hall
Short Break
15:30
SSB Hall
Ignition Session
After internal deliberation by our session partner, selected teams formed during the event will be invited to present their ideas on stage. Teams demonstrating the most viable and innovative solutions will be recognized and awarded monetary prizes, which will be announced at the conclusion of the event.
16:00
SSB Hall
Panel Session 2:
Exploring Practical Ways Towards Plastic-Free Gastronomy at the Hyper Interdisciplinary Conference 2025 Iloilo Forum
Session Partners:
ADA Biotech Sdn. Bhd.
The Philippines faces a mounting challenge in reducing plastic waste, especially in the food and beverage sector. Iloilo, with its recognition as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy and its growing café and restaurant ecosystem, is uniquely positioned to lead the transition toward biodegradable and eco-friendly solutions. With the growing issue of plastic pollution, we need to work together to take decisive steps in protecting the environment by replacing plastics in the food and beverage ecosystem with sustainable, biodegradable alternatives. This panel brings together stakeholders from industry, research, and policy to discuss practical and innovative replacements for plastic straws, utensils, packaging, and other food-service materials. By highlighting local research strengths, business opportunities, and policy perspectives, the discussion will explore how Iloilo can serve as a living laboratory for plastic-free food culture—one that advances environmental sustainability, strengthens economic resilience, and inspires broader adoption across the region.NEWS RELEASE
SSB Hall
SSB Hall
SSB Hall
English 
Japanese