PhilDev honours leaders of science, technology and change

Alice Eduardo: Innovation Excellence Award for Engineering Industry

As the president and CEO of the award-winning construction firm EEI Corporation, Eduardo has shattered glass ceilings in a traditionally male-dominated field. Her leadership has not only propelled her company to new heights but has also paved the way for women in engineering. In her acceptance speech, Eduardo reflected on the collective nature of her success:

“Receiving this award is a testament to the dedication, passion, and hard work of countless individuals who have contributed to the construction industry’s growth and evolution. It is a reflection of the collaborative efforts, innovative spirit, and commitment to excellence that define our profession. From groundbreaking projects to sustainable practices, our industry plays a vital role in shaping the world we live in. Beyond the structures lies the purpose of why we strive to dream and achieve. We do not build highways and bridges just to move bodies of people but to move hearts toward collective development.”

She dedicated the award to the entire construction community, emphasising the teamwork and resilience that fuel their remarkable accomplishments.

Nanette Medved-Po: Innovation Excellence Award for Sustainable Environment

A revered figure in sustainable business practices, Medved-Po received the Innovation Excellence Award for Sustainable Environment. As the founder of the non-profit organisation Teach for the Philippines, her commitment to social responsibility and environmental advocacy is undeniable. Medved-Po’s work spans from initiatives focused on carbon sequestration to tackling the global plastic crisis, all with the goal of securing a better future for the next generation. In her acceptance speech, she shared a heartfelt moment with her son, who was in attendance:

“I’m extra nervous tonight because I have my son with me as my date, and this is his first time doing something like this. But I think it’s actually entirely appropriate that he’s here tonight because innovation, sustainable development, environmental stewardship—these are all things we’re going to need to do very well if we want to leave our children a planet they can live in.”

Reflecting on her journey, she added, “From selling water to build classrooms to working on carbon sequestration with smallholder farmers, I can’t be more grateful because it has brought me here tonight among people that I greatly admire and love.”

Edsel Salvana: Innovation Excellence Award for Research

Dr Edsel Maurice T. Salvana, an expert in infectious diseases, was recognized with the Innovation Excellence Award for Research. A leading figure in public health, Salvana's efforts have been instrumental in shaping the Philippines' response to the COVID-19 pandemic. His research has advanced scientific knowledge and impacted health policies nationwide. During his speech, Salvana humbly noted:

“The work we’re doing at UP NIH and the contributions made during the COVID pandemic somehow feel like a good return on investment. I look forward to making more research and inspiring more kids in science as time goes by.”

His message was brief but powerful, underscoring the value of continued innovation and education in the fields of science and medicine.

The evening also celebrated a roster of luminaries, each recognised for their outstanding contributions to science, technology, and policy:

• Edgardo J Angara – Science, Technology, and Education Leadership Award for Policy
• Ramon B Magsaysay, Jr – Technology Entrepreneurship Leadership Award for Policy
• GCash – Dado Banatao Technopreneurship Excellence Award
• Lilia B de Lima, LI.D. (h.c.) – S&T Innovation and Leadership Award for Governance
• Reynaldo B Vea, PhD – Academic Leadership Award for S&T
• Tirso A Ronquillo, PhD – Stratpoint Technopreneurship Education Leadership Award

The PhilDev Gala was filled with inspiring stories, with each awardee sharing their journey, challenges, and visions for the future. The event was a reminder of the potential that lies within the Filipino spirit—a spirit that thrives on resilience, innovation, and a commitment to community.

Notable guests included DOST Secretary Dr Renato Solidum, Jr, former DTI Secretary Alfredo Pascual, former Secretary of Finance Cesar Purisima, and Ambassador Marciano Paynor, Jr. Esteemed members of the academe, startup community, private sector, and foreign dignitaries were also present, alongside key figures from PhilDev’s leadership, including co-founders Dado and Maria Banatao, and Dr Paco Sandejas, and the PhilDev Board of Trustees.

With the ongoing commitment of the PhilDev Foundation, the future looks bright for Filipino innovators and leaders ready to make their mark on the world.

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