Filipino inventor Mark Bantugon nominated for EPO Young Inventors Prize 2025
Filipino inventor Engr. Mark Kennedy Bantugon is making waves internationally once again as he represents the Philippines at the prestigious 2025 European Patent Office (EPO) Young Inventors Prize. Recognized for his pioneering creation Pili Adheseal, Bantugon is one of ten global finalists in the “Tomorrow’s Shape” competition, where the public vote will decide the winner of the People’s Choice Award.
Bantugon’s innovation extracts sustainable adhesive from the pili tree, creating an eco-friendly solution for the aviation and automotive sectors. Backed by the Department of Science and Technology – Technology Application and Promotion Institute (DOST-TAPI), his work has won awards at global events like the James Dyson Award, WIPO National Award, and Seoul International Invention Fair.
From Local Support to Global Market Recognition
The support of DOST-TAPI has been instrumental in propelling Bantugon’s invention to global platforms. From winning bronze at the 49th International Exhibition of Invention Geneva to showcasing Pili Adheseal at CES 2025, Bantugon’s journey is a story of relentless Filipino ingenuity. With over $1.38 million worth of product interest from companies in South Korea, Canada, and the US, the innovation has proven its global market readiness.
Voting for the EPO People’s Choice Award is now open, offering Filipinos and sustainability advocates worldwide a chance to back Bantugon’s historic bid. The winner will be revealed in Reykjavik, Iceland, where the EPO will celebrate young innovators who align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Bantugon’s participation not only elevates the Philippines but champions the spirit of local, sustainable science.
