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At PhilDev, our mission is to empower and inspire Filipinos to excel in science and technology. We provide essential guidance, education, and support in entrepreneurship and innovation, enabling success and fostering a culture of technological advancement. Our vision is a future where Filipino ingenuity leads the world in scientific and technological innovation.

As a foundation that originated in the United States and now firmly rooted in the Philippines, we focus on building and nurturing vital connections that bridge knowledge, capacities, and opportunities across borders. PhilDev serves as a beacon of innovation and collaboration, dedicated to uplifting communities and shaping a prosperous future through continuous growth in science and technology.

In the Philippines, our efforts focus on convening multisectoral partners to foster dialogue and cooperative initiatives that spotlight the critical role of science and technology in national development. We are dedicated to connecting individuals and organizations to create scalable, sustainable solutions tailored to local needs. Moreover, we champion innovative ideas, propelling them onto the global stage to advocate for impactful technological adoption and development.

In the United States, PhilDev harnesses the strength of the Filipino diaspora, encouraging them to support and participate in technology-driven innovations and entrepreneurial ventures back home. We facilitate robust partnerships with private industry and academic institutions to exchange resources and expertise. These collaborations enhance our scholarship programs and foster a rich environment of mutual growth and support between the U.S. and the Philippines.

PhilDev was founded by Diosdado “Dado” Banatao, a pivotal figure in Silicon Valley, who, along with dedicated compatriots, committed to giving back to their homeland in the most impactful way possible. Since its inception in 2011, PhilDev has been a registered nonstock, nonprofit organization, launching and leading initiatives in education, start-ups, and mentorship that have significantly advanced the Philippine community.

Core Pillars

PhilDev collaborates with government bodies, academic institutions, and the private sector to leverage science and technology for sustainable and inclusive economic advancement in the Philippines. Our efforts are structured around three fundamental pillars:

Education

At PhilDev, we hold education in high esteem, recognizing it as the cornerstone of national development. We are committed to enhancing educational frameworks and supporting the ambitions of both young students and distinguished scholars through robust scholarship programs and diverse learning opportunities. Our initiatives are designed to empower the next generation of leaders and innovators.

Innovation

We are staunch advocates for innovation, understanding its critical role in propelling knowledge and industries into the future. Our strategy includes strengthening connections within and across organizations, academic circles, and the private sector, coupled with significant investments in research and development. These efforts ensure that innovative practices and solutions continue to flourish, driving socio-economic growth.

Entrepreneurship

Entrepreneurship is a powerful force for societal transformation, and at PhilDev, we nurture this dynamic by fostering a culture of creativity and practical ingenuity. We support entrepreneurs in transforming ideas into viable, scalable, and sustainable businesses that not only generate employment but also distribute wealth throughout the community. Our focus is on creating lasting impact and fostering economic resilience.

Diosdado “Dado” Banatao, Chairman

Diosdado “Dado” Banatao’s journey from a humble farming community in Iguig, Cagayan Valley, to becoming a revered figure in global technology epitomizes the transformative power of education and innovation. Growing up without electricity and walking barefoot to school along dirt roads, Dado’s early life was marked by both challenges and determination.

Dado’s academic pursuit began at Mapua Institute of Technology in the Philippines, leading him to further his studies in the United States at the University of Washington. A licensed pilot, Dado also contributed to the engineering team of the iconic Boeing 747. His thirst for knowledge took him to Stanford University, where he earned a Master of Science in Electrical Engineering and Computing Science.

At the Homebrew Computer Club, Dado mingled with notable pioneers such as Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak, gaining insights that would fuel his future innovations. He went on to invent foundational technologies that underpin today’s personal computers—the PC chipset and the graphics acceleration architecture.

Dado’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish three significant technology startups: Mostron; S3, which became the third most profitable company globally in 1993; and Chips & Technologies, which he later sold to Intel in 1996.

Currently, Dado serves as the managing partner at Tallwood Venture Capital, a firm dedicated to advancing semiconductor technology solutions across computing, communication, and consumer platforms.