The Pili Powerhouse: Filipino Inventor Mark Kennedy Bantugon Eyes Global Recognition in Europe

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

In an era defined by sustainability and innovation, one name is quickly becoming a beacon of Filipino ingenuity on the global stage: Engr. Mark Kennedy Bantugon. Armed with little more than a visionary mind, an unshakable belief in local potential, and the humble pili tree, Bantugon is now poised to make history as a finalist in the European Patent Office’s (EPO) prestigious “Young Inventors Prize 2025.”

Representing not just the Philippines but the aspirations of a new generation of inventors, Bantugon’s eco-friendly creation, Pili Adheseal, is changing the way the world views adhesives—proving that sustainability and innovation can indeed grow from the roots of homegrown trees.

From Batangas to the World Stage

Engr. Bantugon, a Batangueño and DOST-TAPI-supported inventor, isn’t new to global acclaim. His groundbreaking work with Pili Adheseal—a sustainable adhesive made from byproducts of the pili tree—previously earned him the 2021 James Dyson Award and the rare distinction of being the first Filipino recipient of the WIPO National Award for Inventor in Geneva, Switzerland. Now, with the EPO’s Young Inventors Prize in sight, he stands among ten of the world's most promising young innovators, each competing for a prestigious recognition that could change their lives—and industries—forever.

The Power of Pili

Pili Adheseal isn’t just another product. It’s a statement. A defiant response to an industry plagued by synthetic, petroleum-based adhesives. Developed through years of research and inspired by the Philippines’ rich biodiversity, Bantugon’s invention meets both commercial and ecological demands. Its applications extend from aviation to construction, offering strength without compromise to sustainability.

This innovation has already caught the attention of global giants. CATL SG and LG, both key players in the secondary battery innovation space, are reportedly eyeing bulk orders of 120,000 units in 2025 and 100,000 more in 2026. American electric vehicle manufacturer Aptera Motors is also in talks for product licensing. Meanwhile, Metal Roof BV Canada has already committed to a 10,000-unit order for metal sheet applications. With a conservative valuation of $1.38 million, Pili Adheseal’s economic impact is just as impressive as its environmental promise.

A Journey Fueled by Passion—and DOST-TAPI

Behind every great inventor is a support system that believes in the impossible. For Bantugon, that support came from DOST-TAPI (Technology Application and Promotion Institute). Through programs such as the National Invention Contest and Exhibits, and the SPICE (Science and Technology Promotion for International Contest and Exhibits), Bantugon turned ideas into international achievements.

He clinched bronze at the 49th International Exhibition of Invention Geneva and gold at the 2024 Seoul International Invention Fair (SIIF). His standout appearance at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2025 in Las Vegas amplified his story, showcasing Pili Adheseal to global investors and innovators alike.

The EPO Young Inventors Prize: A Global Stage, A Filipino Dream

The EPO’s Young Inventors Prize celebrates innovators under 30 whose ideas support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In 2025, the event will recognize ten world-changers during a prestigious awards ceremony in Reykjavik, Iceland, with three special honors presented by symbolic figures: World Builders, Community Healers, and Nature Guardians.

But there’s one prize where the world holds the pen—the People’s Choice Award. An online vote will determine who receives this honor, and for Bantugon, it's a chance to bring global pride and recognition back to the Philippines.

How You Can Help: Vote for a Better Tomorrow

Filipinos around the world, sustainability advocates, and innovation champions—this is your moment to act. A vote for Engr. Mark Kennedy Bantugon is a vote for sustainable innovation, national pride, and a brighter future.

Vote here: https://www.epo.org/en/news-events/young-inventors-prize?size=n_15_n

Follow EPO on Facebook for updates: https://www.facebook.com/europeanpatentoffice

A Symbol of Hope and Ingenuity

As the Philippines continues to carve out its identity on the global innovation map, the story of Mark Kennedy Bantugon offers hope. Hope that Filipino ingenuity, when supported and celebrated, can create solutions for the world’s toughest challenges. And hope that a pili tree—often overlooked—can anchor a revolution in sustainable technology.

This is not just a competition. It’s a movement.

Let’s help our very own Engr. Mark Kennedy Bantugon rise to the top. Let’s bring the People's Choice Award home. Let’s show the world what Filipino innovation looks like.

For press inquiries, contact Mirielle Vacal at +63 956 711 3145 or Heherson Valdez at +63 906 447 7735. Email: ccu@tapi.dost.gov.ph

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