The SILLAG Region 1 was inaugurated by the DOST 1 through a significant Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) ceremony and the creation of a Regional Startup Roadmap on December 6-7, 2023, held at Purok Marcela Resort in Lingayen, Pangasinan.

Ten key institutions took part in the momentous MOU signing: Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU), Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University (DMMMSU), University of Northern Philippines (UNP), Pangasinan State University (PSU), Universidad de Dagupan (UdD), Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College (ISPSC), Northwestern University (NU), National Economic and Development Authority Region 1 (NRO 1), Pangasinan Entrepreneurs Development Association Incorporated (PEDAI), and United Pangasinan ICT Council (UPICT).

During the opening remarks by Engr. Arnold C. Santos, the Project Leader of SILLAG Region 1, gratitude was extended to the supporting state universities, colleges, national government agencies, and private sectors. Their commitment through the MOU marked the commencement of future collaborations aimed at fostering a thriving regional startup ecosystem.

Ms. Annalie L. Rosales, Co-Project Leader of SILLAG Region 1, recounted the origins of SILLAG and how it gained momentum with support from partner institutions. She outlined SILLAG's objectives, workplan, and the Philippine Startup Ecosystem Report.

Following the MOU signing, the election of officers took place. Dr. Teresita A. Tabaog, the Regional Director of DOST 1, was elected as the Chairperson, with Mr. Racky D. Doctor, President of PEDAI, appointed as the Co-Chairperson of SILLAG Region 1. Various committees were formed to oversee specific aspects: the consortium secretariat led by Provincial Director Arnold C. Santos along with Ms. Annalie L. Rosales and Ms. Monique C. Esguerra, the Innovation Committee led by Mr. Nestor Feland Panopio of UPICT, the Capability Building Committee headed by Mariano Marcos State University, and the Linkages and Resources Management Committee under the guidance of UNP President Dr. Erwin Cardona.

Moreover, the development of a Regional Startup Roadmap aimed to align partner institutions' programs for startups and engage in consultations with industry partners to identify needs, obstacles, and access points within SILLAG.

Dr. Thelma Domingo-Palaoag, Project Leader of Technological Consortium for Awareness, Readiness, and Advancement of Knowledge in Innovation (TARAKI - CAR), shared insights and challenges in establishing consortia. She emphasized the substantial impact of the startup consortium on the six provinces of the CAR region.

Empowered by their experience in consortium management, members collaborated on delineating an operational roadmap. This roadmap proved invaluable, guiding the consortium in strategizing to establish and gain recognition for SILLAG Region 1.