QUEZON CITY — Standing tall as the champions of Cagayan Valley, Team 4Pause from Saint Mary’s University (SMU) was formally recognized at the DOT Tourism Start-Up Challenge, held on May 11–12, 2026, at Seda Vertis North.

Organized by the Department of Tourism (DOT) in partnership with the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), the two-day event gathered the country’s top student innovators. Representing SMU were talented team composition of Christian Josh Acosta, Jasfer Dela Cruz, John Paul Dress, Kyneshie Dalpig, Meji Fatima Gomez, and Reza Rahmani Jr. While the first day focused on national vetting across the major island groups, the team maximized the platform by setting up a regional booth to promote their venture and attract potential investors.

The highlight came during the day-two ceremonies, where the 4Pause was officially awarded their ₱250,000 regional prize grant dedicated entirely to the development of the project. With consultant Mr. Sherween Jerry Paul Saquing chaperoning the trip, the Marian delegation successfully translated their regional victory into nationwide exposure.

This initiative strongly aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) by fostering youth “tourism-preneurship” and SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) by driving grassroots hospitality innovation through the development grant. Furthermore, it champions SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by beautifully illustrating cross-sector synergy, uniting the DOT, CHED, and SMU to pave the way for student success.