Biz Buzz: ‘Miss Universe’ for PH innovators

INQUIRER PHOTO / NIÑO JESUS ORBETA

The pageant-obsessed Philippines could soon witness what seems to be a beauty contest for the country’s most innovative individuals and groups, if the National Economic and Development Authority (Neda) successfully hatches its plan.

The National Innovation Council (NIC)—chaired by President Marcos, along with the Neda secretary as vice chair—is targeting to launch a “Presidential Philippine Innovators Award” this year to promote “Filipinnovation,” the whole-of-nation call and commitment to accelerate Philippine progress through innovation.

Speaking to reporters, Neda Undersecretary Rosemarie Edillon said the contest would be patterned after the “Miss Universe” pageant, where contestants are narrowed down via elimination rounds until a winner emerges.

To turn that vision into reality, Edillon said the NIC currently has P100 million in its war chest, which the council hopes to be doubled next year by Congress in time for the actual awarding.

The contest will be open to micro, small and medium enterprises as well as government units and students.

“It will be an open invitation,” Edillon said. —Ian Nicolas P. Cigaral

Another blaze from the dragons

DoubleDragon Corp. of tycoons Edgar “Injap” Sia II and Tony Tan Caktiong are setting ablaze another venture meant to spur investments in the country.

The developer has launched DragonFi 2.0, its new mobile app touted to become an “investment superapp” in the country by making investing more accessible to a larger audience.

“Our app is designed to bridge the gap between complex investment concepts and the everyday investor, making the world of investing not just accessible but also enriching for all,” said Jon Carlo Lim, CEO and cofounder of DragonFi Securities Inc.