PLDT Enterprise, the corporate arm of PLDT, in collaboration with PLDT’s Innovation Laboratory (PLDT Innolab), continues to foster innovation by supporting start-ups at the Tech Planter in the Philippines 2024 Demo Day.
Hosted at the Frassati Building, University of Santo Tomas, Tech Planter provided a platform for emerging start-ups to present technologies aimed at addressing social issues through science and technology.
Filrobotics Technologies Inc. received the “Best Use of Technology Award” for their Agrotis Navigation System, an autonomous system designed to improve conditions for Filipino farmers. Led by Anthony James Bautista, PhD, the company will benefit from a one-year use of PLDT Innolab’s co-working laboratory to further develop its technology.
“Their innovative approach to solving real-world problems through technology aligns perfectly with our parent company PLDT’s broader mission to create a lasting and positive impact on the community through digital innovation,” said Kristine Dara Ever Juan, head of Innovations Lab and Ecosystem Partnerships (Innolab) at PLDT Enterprise.
Agriculture 5.0
PLDT Innolab is a facility designed to create opportunities with start-up partners, focusing on research, next-generation product development, and innovation. By giving start-ups the opportunity to innovate, PLDT Enterprise welcomes next-generation technologies to support businesses in their growth and transformation.
“Agriculture 5.0 is fast approaching, and we need to work harder together to cope with the ever-advancing technology,” said Anthony James Bautista, PhD, founder of Filrobotics Technologies. “The accessibility and affordability of these technologies are improving, and our task now is to prepare and aid our farmers in adapting these tools.”
Tech Planter, initiated by Leave a Nest, is a global platform supporting start-ups in regions including Asean. The Philippines’ Demo Day featured nine finalists and six invited teams, who showcased their innovations to academia, corporate, and government stakeholders.
Filrobotics Technologies Inc., the grand winner, received a P50,000 cash prize and an invitation to present at the Tech Planter Asia Final 2024. Support from PLDT Enterprise and partners is crucial in advancing these start-ups’ solutions.