The National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) spearheaded the celebration of 2nd National
Innovation Day on 28 April 2023 at the Philippine International Convention Center, Manila. With the
theme: “HABI: Huddle. Analyze. Build. Innovate,” the celebration gathered representatives from
various stakeholders including select members of the Congress, members of the National Innovation
Council, development partners, foreign dignitaries, private sector representatives, startups, MSMEs,
members of the academe, and the youth.

In his opening message, NEDA Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan emphasized that this event is crucial
to gather all key actors in the ecosystem to identify and analyze problems, build solutions, and
transform them into valuable innovations. He further underscored that when creative insights are
weaved together, a collective effort and whole-of-nation approach is created which ignites the
Filipinnovation spirit in building a dynamic innovation ecosystem.

One of the key highlights of the event was the Innovation Exhibit showcasing the locally developed
technologies, products, and services, aimed at addressing pressing societal challenges aligned with
the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Participants presented innovative
solutions to issues on healthcare, agriculture, transportation, and environmental conservation,
among others. These innovations demonstrated the immense potential of Filipino talent and their
dedication to finding practical solutions for national and global issues.

Distinguishing the importance of cultivating young talent, a section was dedicated for workshops
and hackathons for students from different schools to cultivate projects in different fields. Young
inventors from schools across the country displayed their creative innovations, demonstrating the
potential of the next generation in shaping the Philippines’ technological landscape. Winners of the
Innovation Competition were awarded at the end of the program. The event served as a testimony of
the country’s steadfast enthusiasm for fostering a culture of innovation through its thrust toward a
prosperous and inclusive future.