By Veronica Uy
The Swiss Innovation Prize 2024 awarded top honors to Filipino innovators whose groundbreaking projects in sustainability, digitalization, and prosperity impressed judges and audiences alike.
The winners include the creators of Algoplast, a seaweed-based biodegradable plastic; DapatWatt, an energy-saving device; and the Makeroscope Initiative, a low-cost microscope for STEM education.
Celebrated at a grand awarding ceremony on November 21, 2024, at Azalea Hall, Somerset Central, Makati, the event highlighted the ingenuity of nine outstanding groups (23 finalists) competing in three innovation streams. From a pool of 163 applicants, these projects emerged as transformative solutions with the potential to create lasting positive impacts in the Philippines and beyond.
Switzerland, recognized as the world’s most innovative country for 14 consecutive years, reaffirms its commitment to nurturing groundbreaking ideas through the Swiss Innovation Prize. By supporting initiatives like these, Switzerland strengthens its collaboration with the Philippines, empowering young minds to tackle global challenges with creative, impactful solutions.
Digitalization Stream
1st Place: DapatWatt – Led by Erwin Bonto, Sean Natividad, and Kate Plantilla, this project leverages technology to optimize energy consumption.
2nd Place: NutriGuard – Bea Pallera, Kline Lepardo, and Angeli Robes developed a system ensuring food safety through real-time monitoring.
3rd Place: Project Zeolite – A team of Tristan Listanco, Princes Fajardo, and Sittie Mamangcao introduced innovative filtration solutions using zeolite technology.
Prosperity Stream
1st Place: Makeroscope Initiative – Spearheaded by Jeremy De Leon, this initiative enhances access to STEM education through low-cost microscopy tools.
2nd Place: LAntRN – Veil Castro, Daniel Ombao, and Mark Carascal designed an agricultural network platform for improving farmers’ market reach.
3rd Place: Project I.E. – Developed by Alenklein Tongawa, Robelyn Malla, and Hazael Barino, the project empowers small entrepreneurs through accessible e-commerce solutions.
Sustainability Stream
1st Place: Algoplast – Tiffany Lao and Kirk Damian created a sustainable alternative to plastics using algae-based materials.
2nd Place: K4MOS – Faith Sarmiento and Katrina Castillo proposed a system transforming food waste into energy.
3rd Place: Mais Filter – Jessa Ibon, Efanna Casil, and Christopher Ruiz developed a water filtration system using corn husks.
The winners received cash prizes of P100,000, P50,000, and P30,000 for first, second, and third places, respectively, in their categories.
The awards were presented by industry leaders, including Daniela San Agustin (President, Ivoclar Vivadent), Jeffrey Ibanez (Founder, Impact Acoustic), and Samuel Manlosa (Senior Vice President, Holcim Philippines).
The Swiss Innovation Prize underscores Switzerland’s dedication to fostering creativity and collaboration for positive change. By recognizing and empowering young minds, the Embassy of Switzerland and its partners continue to strengthen the bridge between Swiss innovation and Filipino ingenuity.