President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has established the Presidential Filipinnovation Awards, a new national initiative recognizing Filipino innovators and enterprises whose work advances national progress through innovation.

The awards program was created under Executive Order 99, signed by Marcos on 6 October, and is anchored in Republic Act 11293, or the Philippine Innovation Act, which identifies innovation as a key driver of development and sustainable economic growth.

Billed as the country’s most prestigious innovation competition, the Filipinnovation Awards will be held annually to highlight Filipino-owned and registered individuals or enterprises whose products or services are in the early stages of commercialization.

“The awards aim to bring out the best Filipino innovators, connect them with key industry stakeholders and investors, and strengthen the country’s innovation ecosystem,” the EO stated.

Winners will be honored by the President or the Executive Secretary and will receive a presidential medallion and plaque bearing the official seal, citation, and signature of the President.

Awardees will also receive additional support such as mentorship, coaching, and international exposure opportunities to help expand and promote their innovations.

The National Innovation Council has been tasked to implement the competition, including forming a Selection Committee and a Board of Judges at both national and regional levels. These bodies will screen and evaluate submissions based on clear criteria to ensure transparency and fairness.

The EO directs the NIC to issue detailed implementing guidelines within 15 days of the order’s effectivity, outlining the competition mechanics, evaluation process, and benefits for winners.

Initial funding for the awards will come from the current budgets of NIC member-agencies. Succeeding allocations will be proposed annually under the regular national budget.