The Byte Forward Hackathon 2025 came to a close with an inspiring celebration of innovation and teamwork, as young Filipino students showcased their creativity and technical skills in the Grand Finals held during the 51st Philippine Business Conference and Expo (PBC&E) at the SMX Convention Center.
Organized by Converge ICT Solutions Inc. and Rev21 Labs in partnership with the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), the nationwide hackathon gathered some of the country’s most promising tech talents to develop digital solutions that address real-world business challenges. From an initial pool of 200 participants across five regional rounds, 15 standout teams advanced to the national stage to demonstrate how Filipino ingenuity and technology can shape a smarter, more connected future.
“In launching the Hackathon, we wanted to collaborate with the largest economic driving force in the country—our SMEs,” said Rev21 CEO Ron Puno. “They sustain so much of our economy, and we believe that once they are connected to strong digital infrastructure, they’ll have the power to ideate, build, and innovate. Over the past six months, through our partnership with PCCI, we’ve witnessed this firsthand. We took real business challenges from SMEs nationwide and gave them to students—and the ideas that came back were nothing short of inspiring.”
After a series of intensive pitches and live demonstrations, Team TECHMEHOW2DOUGIE from De La Salle University Manila emerged as the Grand Winner with their project Caya, an AI-powered inventory assistant designed to help small business owners make smarter restocking decisions. When an item runs out of stock, Caya automatically analyzes profitability, negotiates with suppliers, and initiates restocking—or suggests reducing or discontinuing purchases—turning complex data into actionable insights for entrepreneurs.
“I would really encourage aspiring developers to join hackathons because you learn so much from the experience,” said Christina Sijera, one of the winning team members. “There’s no major risk if you don’t win, but there’s so much to gain—opportunities, growth, and learning. Byte Forward stood out for its strong support system, access to tools, and valuable mentoring and networking.”
“Don’t let fear stop you,” added teammate Brendan Castillo. “Anyone can think of a great idea, but it’s easy to doubt if it’s doable in a short time. You’ll never know until you try.”
Team K-MAS from the University of the Philippines – Mindanao bagged second place, while Team CABUYAO from the University of Cabuyao placed third. Each team showcased forward-thinking projects that reflected the vast potential of Filipino tech talent to create real impact through technology.
Beyond the competition, the hackathon also featured workshops, mentorship sessions, and networking opportunities to further enhance participants’ skills and connect them with industry professionals. It became a vital platform for collaboration among students, tech experts, and business leaders eager to transform innovative ideas into tangible, high-impact solutions.
“The Byte Forward Hackathon embodies our belief that Filipino innovators possess the creativity and determination to uplift communities through technology. By supporting initiatives like this, we’re helping bridge the digital divide and empowering the next generation to lead the country’s digital transformation,” said Converge CEO and 51st PBC&E Chairman Dennis Anthony Uy.
“Empowering young developers to create meaningful, real-world solutions not only strengthens local businesses but also advances our collective pursuit of inclusive, technology-driven progress. Initiatives like this embody the true spirit of collaboration that moves our nation forward,” shared PCCI President Consul Enunina V. Mangio.
The Byte Forward Hackathon is part of Converge SME Solutions’ continuing efforts to strengthen the Philippine tech ecosystem by providing platforms that spark innovation, encourage collaboration, and develop digital solutions aligned with the government’s digitalization goals.
About the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry
The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) is a non-stock, non-profit, business organization that is comprised of small, medium, and large enterprises as well as local chambers and industry associations representing various sectors of business, all working together to foster a healthier economy and improve the viability of business in the country. As a proactive catalyst of development, the PCCI promotes and supports the drive for globally competitive Philippine enterprises in partnership with the government, local chambers, and other allied business.
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