On August 14, 2025, I had the privilege of serving as the Chairman of the Panel of Judges for the Business Pitch Startup Competition held at St. Paul’s Business School in celebration of its 31st Founding Anniversary. With the theme “Embrace the Present, Continue to Thrive,” the event took place at the Manuel Ngo Student Center and featured five highly competent student groups, each brimming with entrepreneurial spirit and innovative thinking.
From the moment the first pitch began, I knew we were in for an exciting morning. These students didn’t just bring ideas — they brought heart, vision, and a desire to solve real-world problems. Their presentations were not only well thought out but also impact-driven, showing us that the next generation of entrepreneurs understands the importance of purpose alongside profit.
Highlights from the Pitches
Buzzoras – Recycling Service App
This group stood out with their idea for a recycling collection service app. While the concept was strong and socially impactful, it overlapped with existing LGU services. The best suggestion for them was to collaborate with LGUs instead of competing, ensuring households wouldn’t face double costs. With a more robust operational and financial plan, this pitch has real potential.
Sole EnVision – Shoe Repair & Upcycling
Confidently delivered, this pitch was persuasive and well-articulated. Their idea centered on repairing and upcycling shoes into almost new products. While the passion was evident, the challenge lay in scalability and pricing margins. A pivot toward additional services might open stronger revenue opportunities.
MaxiKasi – Teleconsultation App
This team impressed me with their sharp responses during Q&A. Their concept, a healthcare teleconsultation app, was insightful though the market already has strong players. Their plan to integrate AI-driven responses for common medical queries was promising, though it would need careful regulation to ensure safety and reliability. Their confidence and clarity were commendable, making them one of the more memorable groups.
Travelbuddy
This team showcased outstanding marketing skills and presentation flair. However, their pitch lacked clarity on operational and financial execution — the very details investors look for when deciding whether to back a venture. I was glad to share with them one of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned in my own pitching journey: a good story must always be backed by a solid business model.
Boundless – Book Trading Platform
Their idea centered on creating a platform for book trading. While unique, it felt somewhat outdated in today’s digital-first environment, where e-books and digital resources dominate. Nonetheless, their effort reflected creativity and a genuine attempt to find opportunities in niche markets.
My Key Takeaways
What impressed me most was not just the creativity of the pitches, but the confidence, adaptability, and resourcefulness of these students. They demonstrated skills that will serve them well far beyond the classroom — critical thinking, presentation, and the ability to accept feedback.
Events like this are invaluable because they allow students to test their ideas in a safe but competitive space. Before launching a business in the real world, one must think through operations, finances, scalability, and sustainability — and these students are already beginning to learn that through practice.
I left the event inspired, hopeful, and deeply appreciative of the opportunity to witness firsthand the entrepreneurial potential of the next generation. To the students of St. Paul’s Business School: keep exploring, keep pitching, and keep thriving. The future is yours to build.
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