03/06/2026
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An Ilonggo chemistry student from West Visayas State University (WVSU) led his biotechnology startup to a podium finish at a major national competition for student-led scientific innovation.
Sheenlou Eian M. Bartolome, a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry student from WVSU's College of Arts and Sciences, guided CARBNร Biotech to the First Runner-Up title in the College Category of DisruptorX 2026 on May 25, 2026, at Limketkai Luxe Hotel in Cagayan de Oro City.
DisruptorX is organized by Serial Disruptors in partnership with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and the Oro Trade and Investment Promotion Center (OROTIPC).
The competition gathered promising student entrepreneurs, startup founders, researchers, and innovators from across the Philippines.
Out of 305 applicants nationwide, CARBNร Biotech advanced through a rigorous selection process to become one of the Top 10 National Finalists before securing a podium placement at the National Demo Day.
For Bartolome, the recognition carries weight beyond the competition itself.
"It demonstrates that student-led scientific innovations from Western Visayas can compete on a national stage and contribute meaningful solutions to global environmental challenges," he said.
CARBNร Biotech, which Bartolome founded, is committed to developing marine-derived and bioengineered materials into multifunctional biopolymer systems capable of replacing conventional plastic-based alternatives.
The startup is currently developing what it describes as the world's first bioactive intelligent marine-derived biodegradable strawโa next-generation biomaterial platform.
Bartolome argues that sustainability innovation must move beyond simple plastic substitution.
"Today, a biodegradable straw alone is no longer innovationโit is the baseline. The future lies in intelligent biomaterials capable of delivering additional environmental and functional value while remaining sustainable throughout their lifecycle," he explained.
CARBNร Biotech's research aligns with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including those focused on clean water and sanitation, decent work and economic growth, responsible consumption and production, and the conservation of marine ecosystems.
The startup's long-term vision is to pioneer intelligent marine biomaterials that redefine sustainability through biotechnology, materials science, and regenerative innovation.
Bartolome said he hopes the achievement will inspire more young Filipinos, particularly students in the sciences, to pursue research-driven innovation and contribute to solving the country's most pressing environmental challenges.
