The Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev), serving as Vice Chair of the National Innovation Council (NIC), invites Filipinnovators nationwide to present solutions that could shape the future of the Philippines. The second cycle of the prestigious Presidential Filipinnovation Awards (PFA) is now open for applications.
As mandated by Executive Order No. 99, Series of 2025, the Presidential Filipinnovation Awards is the country’s highest recognition for exceptional Filipino innovation. This award honors individuals, startups, and enterprises with innovations at the early stage of commercialization that show significant potential for national impact.
In addition to national recognition, finalists and awardees will benefit from cash grants, mentorship from leading experts, and opportunities to showcase their innovations at international innovation events. The PFA also creates valuable connections between innovators, industry stakeholders, potential partners, and investors, providing a national platform to accelerate the development, validation, and commercialization of groundbreaking innovations.
The 2026 edition of the PFA focuses on scalable solutions, market readiness, and meaningful collaborations with industry, investors, and innovation enablers. This year’s competition introduces an open category, welcoming applications from all Filipino individuals and Filipino-owned enterprises. The competition will follow a two-tier structure, beginning with sub-national rounds in the National Capital Region, Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. The final national round will culminate in the selection of five outstanding finalists who will receive the Presidential Filipinnovation Award from the President of the Philippines.
“The success of the first cycle of the Presidential Filipinnovation Awards highlighted the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of Filipinos across the nation. As we launch the second cycle, we aim to further amplify the impact of Filipino-led innovations. We encourage more innovators to join us in building a smarter and more innovative Philippines,” said DEPDev Secretary and NIC Vice Chairperson Arsenio M. Balisacan.
Interested applicants are encouraged to register early and submit their complete Application Form and documentary requirements through the official portal at https://filipinnovation.depdev.gov.ph/ between January 15 and March 15, 2026.
The DEPDev Innovation Staff, serving as the Secretariat of the NIC, will continue to manage the PFA for 2026. Applicants can direct inquiries and find additional information on the official Filipinnovation Facebook Page and the DEPDev website.
