FMDS-UPOU Organized a Roundtable Discussion on Digital Technology Entrepreneurship

AADE Round Table Discussion Guest Speakers and Panelists, together with FMDS Dean
and participants posing for the photo-taking session

The Faculty of Management and Development Studies (FMDS) of the UP Open University (UPOU) organized a roundtable discussion (RTD) entitled “Digital Technology Entrepreneurship: Trends, Innovations, and Opportunities for Collaboration” on 06 July 2023 at the Centennial Center for Digital Learning (CCDL) Auditorium, UP Open University Headquarters, Los Baños, Laguna. The RTD is part of the Associate of Arts in Digital Entrepreneurship (AADE) program’s engagement and discussion with the industry and sectors related to start-ups and micro, small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and digital entrepreneurship.

Dean Joane Serrano giving her opening remarks

Dean Joane V. Serrano opened the event with an introduction to the newest FMDS undergraduate program, its beginnings and design, and the rationale behind the conduct of the RTD. Her message focused on the event’s impact and opportunities for transforming entrepreneurship.

(From left to right) Asst. Prof. Tricia C. Ascan,
Former Senator Paolo Benigno “Bam” Aquino IV; and Dr. Eing-Ming Wu

Esteemed resource speakers graced the event. Asst. Prof. Tricia C. Ascan, faculty member of the UPOU FMDS began with a presentation of the AADE program. Former Senator Paolo Benigno “Bam” Aquino IV, principal author and sponsor of Republic Act No. 11337 or the Innovative Startup Act followed with an elaborate discussion of the law. Lastly, Dr. Eing-Ming Wu, Executive Director of Edu-Connect Southeast Asia Association provided insights into Taiwan’s experience with digital transformation in entrepreneurship and partnerships.

(From left to right) Asst. Prof. Ari Luis Halos, Ms. Alwyn Joy Rosel,
Ms. Karla Legaspi, Ms. Nicole Paterno, Engr. Leo de Velez and Mr. Emilio Climaco

The RTD was attended by discussants from the startup industry: Engr. Leo de Velez (Founder of Frontlearners Inc.), Ms. Nicole Paterno (Head for Impact Investment of Villgro Philippines), Ms. Karla Legaspi (Head of Programs, Community and Ecosystem of QBO Innovation Hub), Ms. Alwyn Joy Rosel (Head of Startup Development Program of QBO Innovation Hub), and Mr. Emilio Climaco (Owner of CHEFerd’s Farm). With AADE’s Asst. Prof. Ari Luis Halos as moderator, the discussion emphasized the role, recent trends, and innovations of digital transformation in entrepreneurship. Relevant startup concerns such as AI integration, addressing social issues, and local policies to spur digital startup innovations were also addressed.

Dr. Maripres Sarinas during her closing remarks

Dr. Maripres U. Sarinas, Secretary to the Faculty, closed the event highlighting the partnerships, trends, and expertise that enrich the understanding of the challenges and opportunities in digital entrepreneurship. 

The event was attended by an estimated 50 participants including guests from other institutions and universities, and the Taiwanese delegates of FMDS’ Project LAKBAY.