By I. Inojales, Helen Castaño | 10:34 PM July 17, 2025
Bohol Governor Erico Aristotle Aumentado delivered an inspiring keynote message at the Filipinnovation Awards 2025 – Visayas Sub-National Competition, urging stronger support for innovation ecosystems that empower communities and drive inclusive development.
Held at Marco Polo Hotel in Cebu City on Thursday, July 17, the event gathered leading innovators, entrepreneurs, industry players, and government officials from across the region.
Aumentado, who chairs the Visayas Sub-National Committee (SNC) of the Filipinnovation Awards, emphasized that the awards program goes beyond mere recognition.
“This is not just a competition. It is a platform for transformation — connecting science, technology, and enterprise to fuel sustainable development,” he said.
As a staunch advocate of innovation, Aumentado highlighted the critical role of local and national leaders in cultivating an environment that encourages the generation of fresh ideas and their conversion into viable products, services, and programs.
“In SugBohol and across the Visayas, we believe that innovation is for everyone — as changemakers and as beneficiaries,” he added.
The governor also praised the National Innovation Council, chaired by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., and the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) for spearheading the awards and organizing the Visayas leg through DEPDev Region VII.
He likewise acknowledged the support of local government units, industry partners, and stakeholders for making the program a success.
This year’s Visayas competition featured 11 semifinalists, with the top three innovators advancing to the National Finals in October 2025. A total of P3.5 million in cash prizes and technical support awaits the five national winners.
“Your groundbreaking solutions to the nation’s challenges reflect the very best of the Filipino spirit,” Aumentado told the finalists.
The Filipinnovation Awards continues to serve as a national platform to discover and promote Filipino talent, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit aimed at solving real-world problems.
