Manila, Philippines – [March 3, 2025] – The spirit of climate innovation, ignited during the pilot event at San Francisco Tech Week, blazed brightly at the recent Climate Innovation Leaders Workshop held at De La Salle University's (DLSU) Henry Sy Hall Verdure Hall, Malate, Manila on February 27th. Hosted by DEVCON, DLSU, and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), this intimate gathering marked a significant step in bridging the gap between global tech advancements and the pressing climate challenges Filipino communities face.

Building upon the successful pilot program in San Francisco, California, the workshop convened passionate leaders from across the Philippines, from Metro Manila to Iloilo and Bukidnon. Inspired by DEVCON Founder Winston L. Damarillo’s insights from the World Economic Forum (WEF), the event fostered focused networking and collaborative sessions, laying the groundwork for a strategic 2025 climate innovation agenda.

"We are delighted to welcome such a diverse and passionate group of leaders to DLSU," said Br. Bernard S. Oca FSC, DLSU President, in his opening remarks. "This workshop embodies our commitment to fostering innovation and addressing the critical challenges of climate change through collaborative action."

Damarillo shared his inspiration from the World Economic Forum's Global Agenda Council: "My experience at the WEF highlighted the urgent need to translate global climate conversations into tangible local solutions. This workshop is a direct response to that, bringing together the best minds in the Philippines to drive meaningful change."

The workshop benefited from the invaluable insights of esteemed speakers, including DOST Assistant Secretary for Technology Transfer, Communications, and Commercialization Napoleon K. Juanillo Jr. PhD, Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Climate Change Service Director Elenida Basug, and Michael Boctot from the Board of Investments, an attached agency of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). Beyond talks, participants engaged in breakout sessions, utilizing the RISE framework (Research, Incubation, Scale, Expansion) to tackle key areas like education, entrepreneurship, and sustainable growth. 

A highlight was the "reverse pitch" session, where Director Elenida Basug from the DENR presented real-world challenges, sparking creative solutions.

This collaborative spirit was evident in the diverse group of community leaders from organizations like New Energy Nexus, Villgro Philippines, Plastic Bank, and UNDP Accelerator Lab. The workshop yielded a roadmap for future initiatives, fueled by the CREST (Climate Resilience Technology) platform, a tripartite agreement between DOST, DEVCON, and DLSU.

The workshop's success was greatly attributed to the dedicated facilitators, seasoned founders, and climate innovators. The active participation of startups like Kloudtech, WecoWays, Rezbin Waste Technology, Indigo Research/AI Academy PH, Komunidad Global, Talino Venture Labs, and PAMMÉ, alongside organizations like New Energy Nexus, Villgro Philippines, Plastic Bank, UNDP Accelerator Lab, Philippine Young Water Professionals, Rotary Club Makati, Center for Renewable Energy and Sustainable Technology, Upgrade Innolab, and Plastic Odyssey, underscored the innovative spirit of the event. Individuals from ALB, Inc.,  DICT Region 10, DEVCON Bukidnon Chapter, Diinsider Life, DLSU, THE INNOVATOR Media, Poseidon International, Maynilad Water Academy, and more, also contributed significantly.

The Philippines is poised to become a global hub for climate technology innovation, and you can be a part of it. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a passionate advocate, your skills and expertise are needed. 

The Climate Innovation Leaders Workshop demonstrated the power of collaboration and the potential for technology to drive positive change. Join us in building a resilient and sustainable future for the Philippines.

Join us for our June Summit! Corporations and organizations, partner with us to amplify our impact. Explore sponsorship and collaboration opportunities at crest@devcon.ph. Volunteers, sign up at www.devcon.ph to support our climate innovation initiatives and future events.

About CREST Platform:

This initiative is powered by the CREST PLATFORM - Department of Science and Technology (DOST), DEVCON Philippines (DEVCON), and the De La Salle University (DLSU), a tripartite collaboration harnessing technological expertise, scientific leadership, and advanced research infrastructure to create cutting-edge climate resilience technologies. 1