By Heherson Valdez
Among 519 inventions and products from 32 countries, three world-class Filipino innovations proudly raised the Philippine flag on the international stage, earning gold medals and special awards at the recently concluded Seoul International Invention Fair (SIIF) 2024, held in South Korea from November 27 to 30, 2024. These solutions offer innovative, sustainable answers to global challenges.
1. MAKE-roscope by Engr. Jeremy De Leon
The MAKE-roscope is a portable, affordable microscope that can be attached to any smartphone or tablet, enabling students and science enthusiasts to explore the microscopic world with ease. Invented by Engr. Jeremy De Leon, a Manufacturing Engineering graduate from Mapúa University, this invention democratizes science education by providing underprivileged communities with access to modern laboratory tools.
De Leon’s journey to creating the MAKE-roscope stemmed from his desire to make science more accessible, particularly in schools with limited resources. The device has already made a significant impact, with over 8,500 units distributed across schools in the Philippines.
De Leon hopes to network with fellow innovators, explore further applications for his invention in fields like agriculture and health, and expand the device’s reach globally, thereby fostering more inclusive educational opportunities worldwide.
Aside from being one of the Gold Awardees, De Leon’s MAKE-roscope also received the Innovation Award from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. SIIF 2024 also served as a platform for De Leon to inspire aspiring Filipino inventors and highlight the impact of the MAKE-roscope in the country’s education sector. “The feeling was surreal—hard work paid off! I can't wait to return to the Philippines and continue the good work we bring to Filipino students,” De Leon shared during his victorious moment at SIIF 2024.
He also expressed his gratitude to the people and organizations that played a significant role in the success of his invention, saying, “I’d like to thank the teachers, students, and science enthusiasts who supported the MAKE-roscope. Without them, we wouldn’t be here in Seoul. And most especially, DOST-TAPI, for believing in the idea of the keychain microscope—from ideation to commercialization—leading to this gold prize.”
2. Covert Security Yarns & Markings for Anti-Counterfeiting Applications (Department of Science and Technology - Philippine Textile Research Institute)
The Covert Security Yarns & Markings, developed by inventors Dr. Julius L. Leaño Jr., Jenneli E. Caya, Jeff Ryan S. Magalong, Danielle Marie D. Magpantay, and Michael Raymond T. Samson from the Department of Science and Technology - Philippine Textile Research Institute (DOST-PTRI), are designed to address the growing problem of counterfeit textiles. This issue has become a major concern for local handloom weaving communities in the Philippines. The innovative solution involves yarns and markings that emit distinct colors when exposed to UV light, making it easy to verify authentic Filipino-made fabrics.
The key to this invention’s success is its eco-friendly approach, incorporating silk byproducts and inorganic phosphors, ensuring both sustainability and cost-effectiveness. The technology aims to safeguard local weavers’ livelihoods and elevate the Filipino weaving industry by promoting transparency and authenticity. The Covert Security Yarns & Markings have already reached the functional prototype stage, with plans for mass production in 2025.
The invention was also awarded as the Best Inventor Award from the Takharuj Law Firm, Saudi Arabia received by Mr. Gabriel Nicolo A. De Guzman, DOST-PTRI representative.
3. Pili Seal by Engr. Mark Kennedy E. Bantugon
Pili Seal® is an aviation sealant and adhesive made from the Pili tree, a native plant in the Philippines. Invented by Engr. Mark Kennedy E. Bantugon, a materials scientist and aeronautical engineer, Pili Seal® addresses the need for eco-friendly and cost-effective alternatives in industries such as construction, transportation, and aviation.
The hybrid sealant balances elasticity and strength, offering a sustainable solution with the added benefit of reducing carbon emissions by 40% compared to conventional sealants. What sets Pili Seal® apart is its potential to transform the aviation industry in the Philippines by providing locally-produced, affordable materials that reduce the country’s dependency on imports.
Bantugon’s vision is not only to create an eco-friendly product but also to establish Pili Seal® as a solution that can empower local Pili farmers and drive economic growth. His invention has already earned global recognition, including awards from the World Intellectual Property Organization and the Australia Green Economy Innovation Challenge.
With Pili Seal® at the heart of his entrepreneurial efforts, Bantugon is positioning the Philippines as a leader in sustainable innovation. At SIIF 2024, he aims to forge international partnerships, promote the product’s commercialization, and further support the circular economy.
Pili Seal was announced as the one who completed the list of awardees at the SIIF 2024 awarding Ceremony “Hearing my invention called in the last spot of the announcement filled me with immense honor and gratitude. I am proud to have once again represented #PILIpinas in the prestigious international invention competition, bringing with me the heart, excellence, ingenuity of the Filipino spirit and Tatak Pinoy innovation para muling maPILI,” Bantugon shared during the interview with DOST.
Pili Seal also received the Innovation Award from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Best Inventor of the Year award from the Korea Invention Promotion Association (KIPA). Bantugon expressed heartfelt gratitude to God for providing wisdom, strength, and guidance throughout the SIIF competition, especially given the challenges of limited preparation time. He also thanked the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), particularly DOST-TAPI, for its unwavering support and trust in him and his Pili Seal invention. Bantugon praised the institute’s dedication to fostering innovation and empowering Filipino inventors on the global stage.
As these Filipino inventors continue to break barriers in their respective fields, their participation in SIIF 2024 signifies more than just recognition on the global stage—it marks the beginning of a global journey for their inventions. For the years ahead, these inventors have set their sights on commercializing their products and scaling them to reach international markets through continued collaboration with institutions such as the Department of Science and Technology (DOST). They exemplified the ingenuity of Filipinos and brought pride to the Philippines, leaving a legacy that future generations of inventors and innovators can emulate.
** This article is part of the "SPICE: Science and Technology Promotion for International Contest and Exhibits" campaign for the Seoul International Invention Fair – SIIF 2024. For more information and event updates, please visit the DOST-TAPI website at www.tapi.dost.gov.ph.**
