Anchored on the theme “Fostering Innovation and Achieving Meaningful Breakthroughs for Today’s Youth Entrepreneurs in the Bicol Region,” the Camarines Sur Chamber of Commerce and Industry, in partnership with the Provincial Government of Camarines Sur, successfully hosted the 11th Regional Youth Entrepreneurship Congress (RYEC) on October 9–10, 2025 at the Ka Fuerte Sports Complex, Capitol Complex, Cadlan, Pili, Camarines Sur.
This year’s congress brought together over 1,700 student delegates from 30 academic institutions across the Bicol Region, transforming the venue into a dynamic hub of creativity, innovation, and collaboration. The two-day event featured a series of plenary sessions that showcased inspiring narratives of entrepreneurial success, groundbreaking innovations, and the power of digital transformation in business.
Among the distinguished speakers was Governor Luis Raymund “Lray” Villafuerte, Jr., who shared his personal journey as an entrepreneur and public servant. His keynote message inspired the youth to embrace innovation, perseverance, and passion as key drivers of entrepreneurial growth. Governor Lray also highlighted several provincial initiatives for the youth, including free Artificial Intelligence training, expanding access to higher education, and major infrastructure projects that aim to empower the next generation of Camarines Sur leaders.
The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry was represented by AVP Sallie Lacson of South Luzon, who extended a strong message of support and encouragement for Bicolano youth entrepreneurs. Likewise, the Commission on Higher Education reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening entrepreneurship education across universities and colleges.
“My experience so far in RYEC has been inspiring and insightful. As a first timer, I’ve learned so much and gained a deeper appreciation of how business and society are intertwined,” shared Dexter Badiola, a 2nd-year Bachelor of Science in Business Administration major in Marketing Management student from the University of Saint Anthony.
He added, “A great thank you for providing this avenue for business students around the Bicol Region, as it helps us better understand the economy and market of our region, and allows us to uncover more opportunities. This congress truly plays a pivotal role in shaping our perspectives as future entrepreneurs and leaders.”
The congress concluded with high energy and enthusiasm, highlighted by an exciting raffle that gave away laptops, Chromebooks, and Epson printers to lucky participants, symbolizing the spirit of opportunity and reward that RYEC stands for.
As the event ended, the 11th Regional Youth Entrepreneurship Congress left a powerful message: Bicol’s youth are ready to lead, innovate, and transform their communities through entrepreneurship. With renewed inspiration and strengthened connections, this year’s RYEC reaffirmed its mission to empower young entrepreneurs and drive the Bicol Region toward a brighter, more enterprising future.
