For over a decade, the Philippine Development S&T Foundation Inc. (PhilDev), founded by renowned technopreneur Diosdado “Dado” Banatao, has championed Filipino excellence in science and technology (S&T) through education, innovation, and technopreneurship. PhilDev’s vision is to see Filipino talent not only excel in S&T but also drive progress on a global scale, believing that science and technology are the foundations of social advancement.
A testament to this mission is Jession Diwangan from the Umajamnon community in Bukidnon. Through PhilDev’s Science and Engineering Scholarship (PSES), Jession became the first engineering graduate from his tribe, earning cum laude honors at Xavier University–Ateneo de Cagayan. The PSES program offers more than financial aid—it provides mentorship and learning opportunities, helping students thrive academically and professionally. PhilDev also addresses gender gaps in technology through its SHE++ Empowerment Program, in partnership with Wells Fargo Philippines, supporting female students in tech fields.
PhilDev operates at the intersection of education, innovation, and entrepreneurship to foster long-term economic growth in the Philippines. Inspired by Dado Banatao’s journey from humble beginnings to global tech leadership, the foundation is building an ecosystem that supports STEM education and entrepreneurship. Today, Jession works as a test engineer at Analog Devices and now pays it forward by nominating PhilDev’s PSES for grants to help future scholars.
Since 2011, PhilDev has supported hundreds of STEM scholars, recognizing that Filipino talent is abundant but often underrepresented. Only 21% of STEM students graduate in the Philippines, and Filipinos make up just 1.2% of the U.S. STEM workforce, highlighting the need for support and opportunity.
Beyond scholarships, PhilDev’s programs like MULAT (mentoring), TechED (technopreneurship training), and the Young Banatao Learning Lab (YBLL) cultivate leadership, entrepreneurial thinking, and practical skills. Alumni like Engr. Ivan Nara, co-founder of Kool Gear—a wearable cooling technology—showcase the real-world impact of PhilDev’s support.
Through initiatives like TechUP, which empowers universities to nurture innovation, PhilDev is investing in the nation’s future. By bridging gaps and nurturing talent, PhilDev is helping Filipinos turn dreams into reality and building a more innovative, prosperous Philippines.
