Team TECHMEHOW2DOUGIE from De La Salle University Manila clinched the Grand Winner title with Caya, an AI-powered inventory assistant that empowers small business owners to make smarter, data-driven restocking decisions.
The spirit of Filipino ingenuity took center stage at the 51st Philippine Business Conference and Expo (PBC&E), where the Byte Forward Hackathon 2025 culminated in a showcase of cutting-edge ideas, creativity, and collaboration among the nation’s brightest young minds.
Organized by Converge ICT Solutions Inc. and Rev21 Labs, in partnership with the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), the nationwide competition gathered students from across the country to build real-world digital solutions for business challenges. Out of 200 participants from five regional qualifiers, 15 teams advanced to the national finals held at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City.
“Our goal was to connect innovation with impact,” said Rev21 CEO Ron Puno. “By partnering with SMEs — the backbone of our economy — we gave students real problems to solve. What came back were ideas that prove Filipino creativity is ready to lead our digital future.”
After a fierce round of pitches and live demos, Team TECHMEHOW2DOUGIE from De La Salle University-Manila emerged as Grand Champion for their project Caya — an AI-powered inventory assistant designed for small businesses. Caya analyzes sales data, tracks profitability, negotiates with suppliers, and automates restocking, allowing entrepreneurs to make smarter, data-driven decisions.
“I’d encourage any student to join a hackathon,” said team member Christina Sijera. “You gain skills, meet mentors, and discover what you’re truly capable of.” Teammate Brendan Castillo added, “Don’t let fear stop you — great ideas only come to life when you try.”
Team K-MAS from the University of the Philippines-Mindanao secured second place, while Team CABUYAO from the University of Cabuyao placed third. Each presented unique tech-driven concepts aimed at strengthening businesses and communities through innovation.
Beyond competition, participants engaged in mentorships, workshops, and networking sessions with industry professionals — turning the event into a vibrant ecosystem of learning and collaboration.
“The Byte Forward Hackathon reflects our confidence in Filipino talent to transform communities through technology,” said Converge CEO and PBC&E Chairman Dennis Anthony Uy. “By empowering young developers and bridging digital gaps, we’re shaping the next generation of leaders in the country’s digital transformation.”
Supported by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the PCCI, the event underscores the growing synergy between education, enterprise, and technology.
As PCCI President Consul Enunina V. Mangio summed it up, “Empowering young innovators to build real-world solutions strengthens local businesses and drives inclusive, technology-led growth. This is how we move the nation forward.”
The Byte Forward Hackathon stands as part of Converge SME Solutions’ continuing mission to expand the Philippine tech ecosystem — inspiring innovation, collaboration, and digital empowerment aligned with the country’s national digitalization goals.