UNLOCKED 2025: THINK BIG, BUILD SMART, GO FORWARD
Muntinlupa City, October 17, 2025 – Now in its third year, Xinyx Unlocked stands as the flagship talent development initiative of Xinyx Design, serving as a platform to empower the next generation of Filipino innovators from across the country. Promoting inclusivity in innovation, the event brings together students from diverse backgrounds and regions to tackle pressing urban and community challenges through tech-driven solutions. This year’s celebration also highlighted the awarding of the prestigious Philippine Integrated Circuit (IC) Design Awards to Dr. Louis Alarcon of the University of the Philippines and Mr. Jerome Avondo of Silicon Verified Consultancy, Inc.
EMPOWERING FILIPINO ENGINEERS FOR NATION BUILDING
Held at the Tanghalang Haribon in the Insular Life Corporate Center in Alabang, Xinyx Unlocked 2025 showcased the creativity of young engineers developing ideas that reimagine how technology can improve daily life with the theme “Think Big, Build Smart, and Go Forward.” In his message, Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Director Jhino Ilano of the ICT Industry Development Bureau (IIDB) emphasized the role of the youth in driving digital transformation and noted that innovation should be part of the Filipino identity. He also emphasized the importance of supporting start-ups as a way to turn ideas into real opportunities.
To welcome everyone, Ms. Charade Avondo, President of Xinyx Design, encouraged participants to embrace the challenges of their journey in becoming an engineer with determination and purpose, and to pursue meaningful careers in the Philippines, where their ideas can make a real difference.. She emphasized that our bayan is calling for their talent, creativity, and passion and that the future they dream of begins here at home.
2nd Runner up
Design and Development of a Compact EEG Headband for Seizure Prediction through Machine Learning Algorithms. | Members: Caracena, John Levie A. Getrosa, Precious Kristal Grace C. Palomero, Shekaina Jean D. Dela Rama, K S. | Mentor: Toledo, Marc Macbeth M.
1st Runner up
GlucoBuddy: Development of Optical Sensor-Integrated Device for Non-Invasive Continuous Glucose Monitoring in Diabetes Management | Members: Sanglitan, Audreen Louise A. Cultura, Fritzie Mhae V. Era, Shaen Dollykaeh S. Mama, Bryant Carlo C. | Mentor: ENGR. Ranada, Jonrey V.
2025 Champions
CytoScope: An Automated Early Detection of Cervical Cancer from Conventional Pap Smears and Liquid-Based Cytology using Deep Learning for Squamous Cell Classification | Members: Gabonada, Ernest John N. Malunes, Jaesar Justin P. | Mentor: Adrales, Lorelyn F.
RECOGNIZING THE SPIRIT OF INNOVATION AND DEDICATION
In addition to the competition, Unlocked 2025 featured an exhibition showcasing the innovations of this year’s finalists, reflecting the growing creativity and technical expertise of young Filipino engineers. One of the key highlights of the event was the presentation of the prestigious Philippine Integrated Circuit (IC) Design Awards to Dr. Louis Alarcon of the University of the Philippines and Mr. Jerome Avondo of Silicon Verified Consultancy, Inc., in recognition of their contributions to the advancement of semiconductor innovation and education in the Philippines.
After being presented with his award, Mr. Avondo reminded everyone to become “doers”, to take initiative and speak up. He urged everyone to reexamine themselves and reflect if they are genuinely committed to their work or if they’re simply going through the motions. Dr. Louis Alarcon, on the other hand, shared how much he finds fulfillment in mentoring students and empowering the next generation of engineers. He expressed his hope to open more doors for the youth and help provide the kind of opportunities that were once beyond reach, inspiring them to continue pursuing excellence and innovation with purpose.
As Xinyx Unlocked 2025 came to a close, the event reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing an inclusive and forward-looking innovation ecosystem. Guided by this year’s theme, “Think Big, Build Smart, and Go Forward,” it inspired young engineers to see that meaningful progress begins when ideas are shared, collaboration is encouraged, and opportunities are open to all. With continued support from industry, academia, and government, the next generation of Filipino innovators is poised to build smarter solutions and drive the country’s growing presence in the global technology landscape.
Xinyx Unlocked 2025 was co-presented by InLife, the first and largest Filipino life insurance company, and made possible through the support of Silicon Verified Consultancy, Inc., Insular Life Assurance Company, Ltd., 7-Eleven Philippines, DITO Telecommunity, SALiDiTO Ventures Corp., PhilCrest Land Development Co., Inc., Bruno’s Barbers, and Latitude 47 Test Solutions, whose partnership underscores a shared commitment to empowering Filipino innovators and advancing technology for nation-building.