The Department of Economy, Planning and Development (DEPDev) commended President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for signing Executive Order (EO) No. 99 establishing the “Presidential Filipinnovation Awards” to recognize outstanding Filipino innovators and enterprises.
DEPDev Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said the initiative highlights the “vital role of innovation in shaping a more dynamic, competitive and inclusive economy.”
The awards, anchored on Republic Act (RA) No. 11293 or the “Philippine Innovation Act,” reinforce the government’s commitment to promoting innovation as a key driver of sustainable and inclusive growth, supporting the administration’s goal of building a competitive, knowledge-based, and innovation-led economy.
“We thank President Marcos for institutionalizing this recognition, which will inspire more Filipino individuals and enterprises to innovate for economic development,” Balisacan said.
The Presidential Filipinnovation Awards is envisioned as the country’s most prestigious innovation competition. It will serve as a platform to bring out the best Filipino innovators, connect them with industry stakeholders and potential partners, including local and foreign investors and foster a more robust innovation ecosystem in the country.
Starting this year, Filipino-owned and registered individuals or enterprises with outstanding innovations at the early stages of commercialization will be honored annually by the president or the executive secretary.
Winners will receive grants or support such as mentorship, coaching, and participation in international innovation events to assist them in showcasing their innovations.
The National Innovation Council (NIC) will establish a selection committee and a board of judges at both national and sub-national levels to ensure transparency in the nationwide search and evaluation process.
Balisacan said the awards are “not only a celebration of excellence but also a catalyst for nurturing a culture of innovation across sectors.”
He said the EO reinforces the “collective mission to build a future where Filipino ideas translate into marketable and game-changing solutions.”
This year, the Philippines climbed to the 50th place out of 139 economies in the 2025 Global Innovation Index, its highest ranking to date.The awards are part of the National Innovation Council’s effort to advance the country’s progress through innovation. Fifteen finalists have already been identified to participate in the national competition this Nov. 5 to 6, 2025, where they will compete for five Presidential Filipinnovation Awards. They will also get the opportunity to showcase their innovative products, services and processes through exhibits during the national competition.
