Guimaras youth shine at YEP bootcamp, Tashi wins 3rd

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The Department of Trade and Industry successfully concluded the Regional Youth Entrepreneurship Program (YEP–BYE) Bootcamp at Westown Hotel in Iloilo City, held from July 31 to Aug. 1, 2025.

The two-day learning event gathered 60 young entrepreneurs from across Western Visayas to strengthen business acumen, spark innovation, and promote inclusive economic development.

Among the participants were nine youth entrepreneurs from Guimaras, who represented the province with creativity, passion, and purpose-driven business ideas.

These included Shilyn Sambas of Tashi Mushroom Farm, Gian Kishyah Cuadra of Don Carlo Bakeshop, Ralph Nester Tubongbanua of McNester Food Products, Alpha Jun Ibieza of Toursystem.Tech Website Application Services, Gem Rose Cavalida of Flavour & Providence Food Hub, and Hannah Roan Lamina of Guima Coffee Manufacturing.

Three members of the Guimaras Ati Weaving Association — Mica Rivera, Mhae Zaragosa, and Jezyl May Orillos — were also invited by DTI Region 6 to showcase the province’s rich cultural heritage through their indigenous weaving products.

Throughout the bootcamp, participants took part in intensive sessions on business development, marketing, financial literacy, business model canvassing, and pitching strategies.

The event culminated in a business pitch competition, where participants presented their ideas to a panel of expert judges.

Guimaras earned special recognition when Shilyn Sambas, owner of Tashi Mushroom Farm, won third place in the final pitch competition.

Her sustainable and purpose-driven business model impressed the panel for its clarity and community impact.

DTI commended the Master Trainers of Region 6 for their commitment to high-quality training that continues to uplift young entrepreneurs in the region.

The strong showing of the Guimaras delegation affirms the island’s growing reputation as a center for youth-led innovation and resilient local enterprises.