Architect Francis Neil “Ran” B. Quijano, the innovator behind Smart Aquaculture, was  recognized as one of the Top 5 finalists in the StartUP Category of the 2025 National Agri-Aqua Innovation Challenge for his Smart Aquaculture innovation.

A field evaluation was conducted on March 27, 2025, in Oriental Mindoro, where a judging panel assessed Agritektura’s PortaShip technology at three locations: Sama Manaul Aquafarm (Mansalay), CLEF Aquafarm (Bansud), and The Crib Hub – Agritektura Headquarters (Roxas).

The evaluation team included experts from the Asian Institute of Management (AIM), the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD), and the Management Association of the Philippines (MAP). The panel was composed of Dr. Bessie M. Burgos and Atty. Misael F. Cortes (DOST-PCAARRD), Prof. Matthew George O. Escobido (AIM), and MAP Chairperson Mr. Jessie C. Carpio.

Representing DMMMSU-ATBI during the site visit was Ms. Eden P. Borce, Project Manager.

This recognition manifests DMMMSU’s commitment to fostering agri-aqua innovations and supporting entrepreneurial ventures that contribute to the advancement of sustainable agriculture and aquaculture in the Philippines. (By Vicky N. Malaya)