In May, creative young minds from the Philippines came together for the virtual finale of the 2025 Shell NXplorers Philippines ‘The Bright Ideas Challenge’. The challenge brought together high school students from across the country to develop innovative solutions to tackle local issues.

Guided by the Shell NXplorers programme, students applied tools like systems thinking and creative problem-solving to real-world issues, developing bold and forward-thinking ideas that reflect their understanding, passion and drive for sustainable change.

From a pool of 26 impressive entries, 10 standout teams were selected as finalists and presented their projects at the national showcase. The Grand Prize was awarded to Team Shewraps from Palawan National School for their revolutionary idea, The Taro Pack Project. The solution introduces sustainable, leaf-based alternatives to plastic food takeaway packaging by utilising locally sourced taro leaves – reducing plastic waste and revitalising taro cultivation in their community.

“We are incredibly proud of the creativity, passion and purpose demonstrated by all participating students. These young innovators are not only addressing today’s challenges – they are shaping a more sustainable future for our communities.”

Serge Bernal, Vice President for Corporate Relations, Shell Philippines

The event also recognised four other standout teams for their innovative contributions.

• 1st Runner-Up: Team Burnanerz, Ramon Magsaysay High School.
  Their project, Burnanaz, introduced a sustainable biochar made from banana peels, offering a clean and eco-friendly energy source.
• 2nd Runner-Up: Team Bangka, Batangas State University Integrated High School.
  Project Bangka featured a solar-powered lighting system for fishing boats using tomato extracts and photovoltaic cells.
• Merit Awardee and People’s Choice Awardee: Team Kappa Quatro, Palawan National School.
  Their project, APLAYA-TECH, is an autonomous seaweed monitoring device that detects disease and tracks environmental changes.

• Merit Awardee: Team NXfinity, UP High School.
  In project Moribang, the team developed a biodegradable fish collagen-based wound adhesive made from milkfish by-products and moringa extract.

Since its launch in the Philippines, the Shell NXplorers programme has reached more than 2,600 students and 400 teachers, equipping them with the tools and confidence to solve complex challenges through science, technology and collaboration.

The Bright Ideas Challenge is part of Shell’s Powering Progress strategy, supporting the country’s transition to a net-zero emissions future while creating shared value for society. By investing in innovative education, Shell NXplorers continues to empower the next generation of Filipino changemakers and leaders who can help shape a more inclusive and sustainable world.