Dr. Enrico C. Paringit, professor at the University of the Philippines Department of Geodetic Engineering currently serving under secondment, has been recognized in the Esquire Philippines Trailblazers List 2025 for his transformative leadership as Executive Director of the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Council for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development (DOST-PCIEERD). The annual list celebrates over 40 key individuals advancing the Philippine innovation ecosystem across sectors such as technology, finance, education, sustainability, and public service.

At PCIEERD, Dr. Paringit has steered the agency toward becoming a premier enabler of research and development. His leadership has resulted in the successful funding and implementation of thousands of R&D projects nationwide—supporting innovations in renewable energy, artificial intelligence, space technology, disaster resilience, and digital transformation. His technical background in geospatial science and engineering has further strengthened the agency’s programs on smart governance, precision agriculture, geohazard mapping, and urban analytics. Prior to heading PCIEERD, Dr. Paringit led projects such as the Nationwide Disaster Risk Exposure Assessment for Mitigation (DREAM) and LiDAR 1 Program, which revolutionized the country’s capacity to collect and use LiDAR data for flood mapping, resource management, and infrastructure planning.

The Esquire Trailblazers List 2025 reflects a rich mix of leaders pushing boundaries in their respective fields. Among those honored alongside Dr. Paringit are Zahrah Zanjani, co-founder of Cubo Modular, whose sustainable bamboo housing solutions are redefining urban development; Maria Cristina Ibañez of SCALE NCR, who has been pivotal in advancing technology business incubators across Metro Manila; Rhea See of She Loves Tech, a global platform accelerating women-led startups; and Arnold Bagabaldo of Packetworx, who is building nationwide IoT networks that power smart cities and industrial automation.

Also recognized are Leah Callon-Butler of Emfarsis, for her pioneering work in Web3 and digital economies; Winston Damarillo and Vice Catudio of Higala, for building inclusive financial technologies; and Gina Romero of Connected Women, for empowering over 200,000 women in the digital workforce. The inclusion of government champions, startup founders, investors, and creatives underscores the breadth of innovation thriving in the country today.

Dr. Paringit’s recognition not only honors his individual achievements but also affirms the value of science-driven public service. It highlights the importance of investing in research and enabling innovation through sound leadership, partnerships, and a clear vision for inclusive and sustainable national development.

See the full list here: https://www.esquiremag.ph/long-reads/features/startup-trailblazers-list-2025-a1057-20250325-lfrm3?s=8m54k6lfg8ih1cuf1s25rlnr1p