Four fourth-year students from the University of the Philippines emerged as country champions in “The 3M Inspire Challenge,” a regional case challenge by global science company 3M, which seeks solutions in the areas of technology, sustainability, and innovation.

The team is composed of Caleb Abrazaldo (BS Materials Engineering), Mariz Domingo (BS Materials Engineering), Lila Lu (BS Materials Engineering), and Joseph Paraiso (BS Business Administration). They beat the other 16 competing groups in the Philippines with their winning solution 3M Hypack, which aims to offer a non-toxic pro-marine life compostable packaging to help solve the problem of plastic pollution. They will receive $1,000 and an internship with 3M Philippines.

“We don’t have to choose between saving our planet or keeping our access to safe, efficient, durable plastic,” Domingo said when asked about where did the team get its inspiration for the project.

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On Sept. 21, the team will proceed to the regional level finals where they and five other hopefuls from Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam will vie for the title of “Regional Champions” and $2,000 cash prize in a live judging panel.

“These innovations are critical in helping 3M elevate our business and solve challenges around the world,” said Kevin McGuigan, VP and managing director, 3M Southeast Asia and country leader, Singapore. “We are glad to offer platforms like this to support and empower the next generation of diverse leaders, thinkers, and creators.”

The Regional-Level Finals will see a total of 21 students across six teams pitching their solutions to Southeast Asia’s leading subject matter experts in manufacturing and supply chain, research and development, sustainability, branding and communications, as well as business management.