Iligan City, known as the “City of Majestic Waterfalls,” always stands as a place of strength, resilience, and creativity.
When I founded EdFolio and later launched SkoolTek, I aimed to create a platform that would empower schools to manage their operations, learning systems, and student engagement in one seamless experience. What started as a small idea in Iligan is now a comprehensive school system that integrates AI and Blockchain into school’sk admissions, billing, learning management, and student records.
Being recognized among the Top 100 Startups this year is more than an achievement. It is proof that innovation can start right here in Iligan and grow to serve the entire nation, and the world.
Starting an education technology company in Iligan was not easy. Many people told me that to succeed, I had to move to a bigger city where resources and opportunities were more abundant. But I believed that innovation should not depend on geography. I wanted to prove that a world-class idea can grow even in a small, close-knit community like ours, where perseverance, humility, and genuine care for people run deep.
We took small steps and often faced uncertainty about how to move forward. We encountered overwhelming challenges such as financial setbacks, technical failures, and moments of doubt. Yet through it all, one thing stayed constant: we pressed on with grit and faith.
We turned every problem into an opportunity to learn. We used every failure as fuel to improve. Every closed door reminded us that God can open another, often better one.
The recognition from QBO and the Philippine Startup Week celebrates not just SkoolTek’s success. It highlights what Iliganons can achieve. It proves that talent, creativity, and perseverance thrive in our city.
As I look back, I say with full conviction that we reached this milestone not by our own strength but by God’s sustaining grace. God’s grace carried us when our strength ran out. His wisdom guided us when the path looked unclear. His faithfulness showed us that when we build for His purpose, He always makes a way.
I am deeply grateful for everyone who walked this journey with us. Especially to our team, our partners, our schools, and the Iligan community that believed in our mission. But most of all, I thank the Lord for His unending faithfulness and favor.
As someone who grew up here in Iligan, I want SkoolTek’s story to inspire the next generation of Iliganons. You do not need to go far to make an impact. You can start right where you are, with what you have. Our city holds so much potential waiting to be discovered. With young minds eager to learn and communities ready to support one another.
Iligan deserves recognition not only for its natural beauty but also for the brilliance and resilience of its people. Through SkoolTek’s journey, I hope to encourage every Iliganon dreamer and innovator that your vision matters and that YOU can do it.
