The Philippine Development S&T Foundation Inc. (PhilDev), a nonprofit founded by Filipino-American tech entrepreneur Diosdado “Dado” Banatao, has spent more than a decade helping young Filipinos break into science and technology (S&T) careers through education, mentorship, and innovation programs.
One of its scholars, Jession Diwangan from the Umajamnon tribe in Bukidnon, became the first engineering graduate from his community after earning a degree, with honors, from Xavier University–Ateneo de Cagayan. He joined the program through the PhilDev Science and Engineering Scholarship (PSES), which helps students in partner universities by offering financial support, mentorship, and career-building activities.
“PhilDev exists to bridge this gap, champion stories like Jession’s, and empower Filipinos to lead and innovate in STEM worldwide,” said Paco Sandejas, chair of PhilDev’s Board of Trustees. “Jession’s journey is a testament to PhilDev’s impact.”
Now working as a test engineer at Analog Devices, Jession continues to support others. He nominated PSES for a grant to help more students access the same opportunities that shaped his journey.
Focus on access, inclusion, and real-world learning
PhilDev’s programs aim to remove the barriers that keep many talented Filipinos from pursuing careers in STEM. In the Philippines, only 21% of STEM students graduate. Abroad, Filipinos make up just 1.2% of the U.S. STEM workforce.
Through its SHE++ Empowerment Program for Women in Tech, done in partnership with Wells Fargo Philippines, PhilDev also addresses gender gaps by training female university students in tech-based fields.
The Mentoring and Uplifting Leaders & Aspiring Trailblazers (MULAT) program connects scholars with working professionals, offering practical guidance to prepare them for real-world challenges.
Innovation starts with educators
Recognizing the role of teachers in shaping mindsets, PhilDev also runs the Technopreneurship Education and Training (TechED) program, which trains university faculty to integrate entrepreneurship into their courses. The goal is to nurture problem solvers who can turn ideas into solutions.
For students ready to take those ideas further, the Young Banatao Learning Lab (YBLL) offers hands-on experience in solving community problems through technology. With guidance from mentors and project-based learning, students gain the skills to build and grow their own solutions.
Get the latest before it trends. Follow Back End News on LinkedIn, Facebook, X, YouTube, and TikTok for updates and in-depth coverage across the tech and security landscape.
You must be logged in to post a comment.