The Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI), through its social development arm, BPI Foundation (BPIF), has partnered once again with the Department of Science and Technology – Science Education Institute (DOST-SEI) to empower young minds to create solutions for challenges in health, environment, disaster preparedness, education, and entrepreneurship.
Held in December 2024, the BPI-DOST Innovation Awards showcased the groundbreaking projects of the top 11 teams from leading universities, featuring a diverse range of innovations—from tech-driven solutions to grassroots community initiatives.
This initiative is part of BPI’s continued commitment to innovation, in a bid to drive meaningful progress, ultimately contributing to the country’s sustainable development.
“Being the first to adopt emerging technologies, such as the automated teller machine and online banking, is a mindset we consistently nurture. However, it is worth noting that our desire to innovate and accept new technologies is always rooted in serving our customers,” shared TG Limcaoco, BPI President and CEO. “We believe that true innovation should be geared toward making every Filipino’s life easier—only then can advancements in science and technology truly mean progress for the nation.”
The BPI-DOST Innovation Awards program began in September 2024 with an immersive Innovation and Business Workshop, which featured esteemed speakers from the National Research Council of the Philippines, including Dr. Ezekiel Bernardo on Design Thinking; Dr. Susan Atienza on Innovation & Creative Entrepreneurship; Dr. Ryan Ebardo on Presentation Skills; Caezar Angelito Arceo on Patent; Dr. Maricor Soriano on Collaboration & Networking; Dr. Dana Vera Cruz on Technology Marketing & Commercialization; and Dr. Lawrence Dacuycuy on Business Model. These sessions equipped students with skills to turn their ideas into actionable, impactful solutions.
A distinguished group of judges brought their knowledge and passion to this year’s awards—namely Carmina Marquez, executive director of BPIF; Dr. Ryan Corpuz, S&T Fellow from the DOST; Dr. Marie Paz Morales, a renowned educator representing the academe sector; Dr. Aristotle Ubando, a Filipino scientist; and Dr. Gonzalo Serafica from the business sector. Their feedback was clear and actionable, ensuring that every team left with insights they could use well beyond the competition.
Three teams emerged victorious, each taking home PHP 150,000 in cash prizes and the prestigious title of 2024 BPI-DOST Innovation Awardees.
Marquez shared, “We say at BPIF, ‘Kasama Lahat sa Pag-Unlad’—progress is for everyone. Together, we build a future where no one is left behind. To our students, your projects demonstrate that young Filipinos are more than capable of addressing real-world problems with innovative, forward-thinking solutions. I am confident that you will continue the advancement of science and technology in the Philippines.”
Meanwhile, DOST Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum, Jr., challenged the finalists to be fearless in their pursuits of solutions to the country’s challenges through innovation. “The challenges we face today demand bold ideas, collaborative action, and a commitment to creating meaningful change. Your presence here signals hope—a promise that innovation can drive a sustainable and inclusive future for the Philippines.”
In 2025, BPIF remains dedicated to fostering innovation by investing in young talent for a sustainable, inclusive future. Through its partnership with DOST-SEI, BPIF drives programs like the BPI-DOST Innovation Awards, combining financial inclusivity with DOST’s expertise in science and technology to empower young innovators in addressing national challenges.
Since 1989, BPI and DOST have consistently supported and empowered young Filipino innovators through the BPI-DOST Innovation Awards program.
To learn more about the BPI-DOST Innovation Awards and other initiatives, visit https://www.bpifoundation.org/
