PLDT Enterprise, through PLDT's Innovation Laboratory PLDT Innolab, has once again demonstrated its continuing commitment to the local startup ecosystem as it joined the 9th edition of the annual TECH PLANTER in the Philippines held at the Frassati Auditorium, University of Santo Tomas.
The initiative, organized by global science and technology company Leave a Nest in collaboration with key innovation partners, gathers some of the most promising deep tech startups across the country. With a focus on real-world problem-solving through research and technology, TECH PLANTER continues to be a vital platform for supporting science-rooted startups with social impact at their core.
This year, PLDT Enterprise conferred the “Best Use of Technology Award” to Team Exceltra for their pioneering work on a cost-effective, portable water activity meter. This breakthrough solution enables food manufacturers to rapidly test products on-site—helping to ensure food stability and prevent export rejections by addressing key concerns in food safety and quality assurance.
As part of the recognition, Exceltra will receive one year of access to the PLDT Innolab Co-working & Laboratory Space to further develop their solution.
Daiki Kumamoto, Executive Director of UntroD Capital Asia Pte. Ltd; Crystelle Soriano, Chief Executive Officer of Exceltra, the winner of the “Best Use of Technology Award,” and Kristine Dara Ever Juan, Head of Innovations Lab and Ecosystem Partnerships at PLDT Enterprise, during the TECH PLANTER in the Philippines 2025 Demo Day held at Frassati Auditorium, UST.
“Supporting breakthrough innovations that tackle real societal challenges has always been at the heart of what we do at PLDT Enterprise,” said Kristine Dara Ever Juan, Head of Innovations Lab and Ecosystem Partnerships at PLDT Enterprise. “By recognizing innovations from startups like Exceltra’s, we reaffirm our ongoing commitment to creating a future enabled by science, technology, and meaningful collaboration. We are proud to support TECH PLANTER in this journey toward a more inclusive and innovative Philippines.”
Nurturing startup potential beyond demo day
Unlike traditional competitions, Leave a Nest’s TECH PLANTER provides long-term support to its participants—offering co-development opportunities, continued mentorship, and connections with industry partners beyond Demo Day. PLDT Enterprise’s sustained involvement aligns with its vision of bridging the digital divide and enabling innovation ecosystems through strategic partnerships.
“TECH PLANTER is a launchpad for impactful innovation,” said Dr. Yevgeny Dulla, Managing Director of Leave a Nest Philippines. “We are grateful to PLDT Enterprise for continuing to empower Filipino scientists, researchers, and entrepreneurs who aim to make a difference in society.”
Looking ahead, Leave a Nest is set to celebrate the 10th year of TECH PLANTER in the Philippines in 2026, with continued support from partners like PLDT Enterprise who believe in the potential of local deep tech startups to address pressing social challenges.
Learn more about PLDT Enterprise’s ongoing commitment to startups and innovations that drive business growth. Visit https://bit.ly/pldtenterprise-tech-planter-2025-pr.
