RESEARCHERS from Mariano Marcos State University emerged victorious in the recent activities hosted by the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development.

MMSU Intellectual Property and Technology Business Management Office received the Best Poster Award for its Black Garlic Ice Cream poster in the DOST-sponsored S&T Creations Pitch Day.

According to the team, the black garlic ice cream was generated through the Garlic and Other Agri-Food Condiments R&D Center, in collaboration with the Food Product and Innovation Center.

Made of carabao milk and black garlic, the ice cream is rich in antioxidants and amino acids, and a good source of calcium, iron and potassium, it added.

Meanwhile, Rhian Jaymar Ramil and Rommel Viloria were recognized as mock final exam topnotchers of the 4thIntellectual Property Master Class.

Ramil placed second in the exam for chemical patenting, while Viloria ranked fifth in the mechanical patenting category.

They are among the five topnotchers in the region who are enrolled through the RAISE (Regional Agri-Aqua Innovation System Enhancement) Program, spearheaded by the Ilocos Agriculture, Aquatic, and Resource Research and Development Consortium, MMSU said.

Started last March, the three-month IP Masterclass Training was conducted through intensive virtual lectures and workshops wherein participants were equipped with knowledge and skills in the five modules particularly introduction to IP management; prior art search; technology protection; building up the skills; and masterclass culmination.

The class ended with mock exams for the chemical and mechanical patents.

“These efforts in building and strengthening the innovation culture of the university showcase our relentless efforts to spur technopreneurship in the Ilocos Region,” said Dr. Dionisio Bucao, RAISE Program and Garlic and Other Agi-Food Condiments R&D Center project leader and S&T director.

MMSU President Shirley Agrupis celebrated the recognitions, saying “we will continue to champion creativity and innovation in the university to create high-impact technologies to the community.”