By Heherson Valdez
Innovation is a powerful tool for societal transformation, and Filipino women are at the forefront of pioneering solutions that address critical challenges in the community.
Through ingenuity, resilience, and a deep commitment to social impact, these women are using their expertise and leveraging innovation to transform local resources into impactful solutions. Their innovations not only uplift communities but also reinforce the vital role of women in science, technology, and innovation.
But how has innovation become a platform for them to drive social change—not just within the country but also on the global stage? This article highlights the inspiring narratives of Filipino women innovators who are breaking barriers and creating lasting change.
Transforming Local Resources into Life-Saving Solutions
In Pangasinan’s remote communities, where water scarcity is a daily struggle, Engr. Eleanor M. Olegario, a chemical and materials engineer, turned her expertise into a mission. By leveraging natural zeolites found in her father’s land, she developed the ML Foldable Tank and Zeramic Filter, an innovative system that harvests and purifies rainwater for schools and households. “Success means making a tangible difference,” Olegario shares, emphasizing the impact of locally-driven solutions in addressing real-world problems. Her work not only uplifts underserved communities but also showcases how Filipino women are shaping industries through sustainable innovation. Her invention won a Gold Medal at the 2024 Korea International Women's Invention Exhibition (KIWIE).
Turning Environmental Challenges into Economic Opportunities
Ms. Julienne Stephanie Fabie-Agapin exemplifies how Filipino women are using innovation to tackle environmental issues while uplifting communities. Through her invention, unVas, a paper-based art canvas made from dried banana leaves, she addresses both pollution and poverty, creating sustainable livelihoods for displaced overseas Filipino workers. "Research that stays in the laboratory will have little to no impact," she asserts, highlighting her commitment to transforming scientific discoveries into real-world solutions. By turning agricultural waste into a valuable product, Agapin not only champions climate action but also fosters economic resilience, proving that innovation can be a powerful force for social change. Her invention secured a silver award at the 2024 Korea International Women's Invention Exhibition (KIWIE).
Empowering Communities Through Human-centered Solutions
Engr. Prima Joy F. Margarito, a chemical engineer and environmental advocate from the Industrial Technology Development Institute (DOST-ITDI), developed SafeWaTrS, a mobile, solar-powered water disinfection system that provides safe drinking water to disaster-stricken and underserved areas. Her work not only aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals but also ensures that clean water reaches marginalized communities and micro-enterprises. “Seeing the smiles on people's faces as they benefit from our technology is truly heartwarming,” Margarito shares, emphasizing the power of innovation to create lasting social impact. Her innovation clinched a silver award at the 49th International Exhibition of Inventions Geneva (IEIG).
Sustaining Agriculture Through Innovation
With climate change threatening food security, the need for sustainable agricultural solutions is more urgent than ever. Ms. Lorna Relleve and her team from the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (DOST-PNRI) are reshaping the future of farming with their biodegradable super water absorbent (SWA), a breakthrough that conserves irrigation water by 20-40% while reducing environmental waste. Developed using green technology and radiation processing, this innovation is a game-changer for arid regions struggling with drought and soil degradation.
“We used plant-derived materials and radiation processing without the use of harmful chemical crosslinkers to create a biodegradable, non-toxic, and agronomically effective super water absorbent,” she emphasizes, highlighting its alignment with global sustainability goals. Her innovation gained international recognition, earning a bronze award at the 49th International Exhibition of Inventions Geneva (IEIG).
Harnessing Science for Social Impact
Driven by a passion for science and a commitment to social impact, Ms. Charito Aranilla, a Filipino scientist from the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (DOST-PNRI) is pioneering the development of innovative biomedical devices to address critical gaps in emergency healthcare. Inspired by the urgent need for accessible and affordable medical interventions, her team created plant-based hemostatic agents using radiation technology, offering a sustainable solution to uncontrolled bleeding—one of the leading causes of preventable death worldwide. "My motivation comes from a strong desire to impart a positive impact on society and improve Filipino lives," she shares, underscoring the purpose behind her research. Her innovation was also one of the silver awardees at the 49th International Exhibition of Inventions Geneva (IEIG).
Empowering Filipina Innovators, Driving Social Change
The innovative solutions developed and proposed by these Filipino women go beyond scientific breakthroughs—they drive social progress, economic empowerment, and sustainable development. By combining their expertise and passion, they address social challenges while fostering inclusive growth in underserved communities. However, the journey of these innovators is not one they take alone.
The Department of Science and Technology - Technology Application and Promotion Institute (DOST-TAPI) plays a crucial role in supporting women-led innovations, helping them gain recognition both locally and globally. Through DOST-TAPI’s Science and Technology Promotion for International Contest and Exhibits (SPICE) Program, these innovators have the opportunity to pitch their ideas, expand their networks, secure funding, and showcase their technologies on the global stage.
As Filipino women continue to push the boundaries in science, technology, and innovation, their contributions signify their vital role in the innovation ecosystem and in shaping a better Philippines. By investing in and amplifying their efforts, we move closer to a future where innovation-driven solutions uplift communities and create lasting social impact.
**DOST-TAPI promotes Gender and Development and ensures Gender Mainstreaming in its Programs and Services. For more information, please email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., and for media inquiries, please get in touch with Ms. Mirielle Vacal at +639567113145 or Mr. Heherson Valdez at +639064477735, or email them at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. **
