Iloilo youth wins DTI business pitching contest

Elly John Silva, a student-entrepreneur from Calinog, Iloilo secured a prestigious spot as one of the Top 5 Best Business Pitch winners in a recent seminar-workshop organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Regional Office 6.

Silva’s winning pitch, “Flavor Fusion Kakanin,” showcased his passion and innovative approach to traditional Filipino delicacies, earning him recognition and a cash prize.

The event, held from July 3-5, 2024, was part of DTI 6’s YEP-Be Your Own Boss (BYOB) initiative, a program designed to empower young entrepreneurs by equipping them with essential skills in business planning, startup operations, and management.

Silva, along with three other aspiring entrepreneurs, demonstrated their potential through their creative business ideas during the competition.

DTI Iloilo Provincial Director Ma. Dinda R. Tamayo, together with Negosyo Center Trade-Industry Analyst Charlene Adeja and Business Counselor Jeryl Glory, presented the award to Silva at the Negosyo Center in Calinog.

“Through YEP-BYOB, DTI continues its mission to empower and inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs, contributing to the economic development of Iloilo as well as the whole Western Visayas,” said Tamayo during the awarding ceremony.