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The Philippines is home to amazing Pinay inventors. Think Fe del Mundo, who invented the bamboo incubator in 1941—a lifesaver for newborns in areas without electricity. Today, there are more Filipinas leading the charge in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields, creating solutions that improve lives. From saltwater-powered lamps to reef-imaging technology, they're helping shape a brighter future. Whether you’re looking to fuel national pride or seeking motivation in your own field, keep reading to discover the inspiring women in STEM.
1. Maria Yzabell Angel V. Palma
Maria Yzabell Angel V. Palma is making a big impact on the environment with her AirDisc Air Conditioning Technology. Unlike traditional ACs that rely on harmful hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), the AirDisc uses just air, eliminating these damaging chemicals. But that's not all! It’s also a power-saving champion, slashing energy consumption from a whopping 1200-1500 watts to a mere 150 watts.
Image Credit: Linkedin, Prototypes for Humanity
Palma’s innovation garnered international recognition and awards, including a gold medal at the 2017 World Inventors Contest in South Korea. But her influence extends far beyond her invention. A passionate advocate for women in STEM, she inspires girls to pursue scientific careers, and champions sustainable solutions to climate change.
2. Aisa Mijeno
Image Credit: SALt Facebook
Aisa Mijeno's Sustainable Alternative Lighting (SALt) is designed to provide affordable lighting solutions using saltwater—just a glass of water and two teaspoons of salt. This invention provides an eco-friendly lighting solution, particularly for communities with limited access to electricity but abundant in saltwater resources. It highlights the potential for using simple, widely available materials to address energy needs, reflecting a significant step towards sustainable technological development in lighting.
Former US President Obama highlighted Mijeno's invention at the 2015 APEC CEO Summit. It underscores the Philippines' potential in technology and innovation. Over 1,500 communities in the Philippines have used her SALt lamp, demonstrating Mijeno’s commitment to innovation and social impact.
3. Ann Makosinski
Image Credit: Ann Makosinki Facebook; Ann Makosinki
Filipino-Canadian Ann Makosinski invented a body-heat-powered flashlight to address the lack of electricity in communities like her friend's in Mindanao. The flashlight operates on a principle called the thermoelectric effect. It uses Peltier tiles, which generate electricity when one side is hot and the other side is cold. In this flashlight, hand contact heats one side of the tile, while the surrounding air cools the other side.
This innovation powers the LED flashlight without the need for batteries, winning her the 2013 Google Science Fair in her age group (she was 15 years old at that time). Despite interest from companies, she's focused on improving the flashlight's brightness and cost-effectiveness. Makosinki is also developing a body-heat-powered reading light, demonstrating her commitment to sustainable inventions and her connection to the Philippines.
4. Maricor Soriano
Image Credit: up.edu.ph; DOST-PCIEERD
Physicist and 2014 TOWNS awardee Maricor Soriano integrates her passion for science with her dedication to helping the Philippines. She co-invented the Automated Rapid Reef Assessment System (ARRAS), an underwater imaging system that monitors the health of coral reefs. This innovative system uses kites and software to create detailed underwater maps without divers. The Teardrop, a tethered underwater camera, captures reef footage. Kiko&Stitch software then automatically stitches the video together, generating a geotagged map at an impressive 33 kilometers (about 20.51 miles) of coastline per day. This technology allows scientists and environmentalists to assess reef conditions effectively.
Be Inspired by STEM Stars
Filipinos like Soriano, Palma, and countless others are making waves in STEM fields. Their dedication and groundbreaking inventions are more than inspiring—they're a call to action! Imagine creating solutions that can change the world, just like them.
Ready to be inspired by these incredible women in STEM? You don't need a superhero cape to get started. Whether you're fascinated by coding or curious about marine biology, there's a place for you in STEM. To fuel your exploration and share your ideas, consider a powerful internet connection like GFiber Postpaid Plan or GFiber Prepaid. Who knows? Maybe your next big idea is just a reliable connection away!
