The innovation community once again proved that tech in Bohol is thriving as Startup Weekend Bohol 2026 (Women’s Edition) concluded an intense 54-hour marathon of creativity, collaboration, and entrepreneurship.
Held as part of the global Techstars Startup Weekend program, the event brought together students, innovators, developers, and aspiring founders who worked nonstop to transform ideas into viable startup concepts. Over the course of the weekend, participants pitched ideas, formed teams, built prototypes, validated their concepts, and presented their startups to a panel of judges.
The event not only highlighted emerging talent but also demonstrated the rapid growth of the tech ecosystem in Bohol, with solutions tackling real-world problems in healthcare, community connection, and local commerce.
Champion: GAAN
Taking the top spot was GAAN, a startup designed to support Filipino seniors and their families.
The platform helps elderly users maintain healthy lifestyles by reminding them to eat nutritious meals, take medications on time, and stay connected with their communities. By combining health reminders and social connectivity, GAAN aims to give families peace of mind knowing their loved ones are cared for and supported.
The winning team behind GAAN is composed of 2nd-year students from Holy Name University — Afrille Macabudbud, Oliver Avelino, and Marl Edisson Pon.
Their victory does not stop in Bohol. The team will now move on as the sole representatives of the Philippines in the Techstars Startup Weekend Women’s Edition 2026 Global Round, where they will compete against winning teams from 40 cities across 25 countries and 6 continents.
1st Runner-Up: SmartFlora
Securing second place was SmartFlora, a digital marketplace designed for gardeners and plant enthusiasts in Bohol.
SmartFlora provides a platform where local plant growers can showcase ornamental plants, connect with buyers, and expand their reach beyond traditional physical markets. The platform aims to support the growing community of plant collectors while creating new digital opportunities for plant sellers across the province.
2nd Runner-Up: SafeBirth
The SafeBirth team took third place with a maternal health application designed to support expectant mothers.
The app integrates smart medical devices that automatically upload vital signs into digital records, allowing easier monitoring during pregnancy. It also includes an educational library and healthcare facility locator, helping mothers access reliable information and nearby healthcare providers.
SafeBirth highlights how tech in Bohol can contribute to improving healthcare access and maternal safety.
A Breakthrough Moment for Tech in Bohol
Startup Weekend Bohol 2026 (Women’s Edition) once again demonstrated the potential of Bohol as a growing hub for innovation and technology. Events like this provide aspiring entrepreneurs with mentorship, exposure, and the opportunity to transform ideas into real solutions.
More importantly, the competition showcased how young innovators in Bohol are building technology that addresses local and national challenges—from elder care to maternal health and digital marketplaces.
As GAAN prepares to represent the Philippines on the global stage, the local community is rallying behind the team.
The success of Startup Weekend Bohol also sends a clear message: the future of tech in Bohol is bright, and the next generation of innovators is already stepping forward.
Boholanos and supporters are encouraged to send their support as Team GAAN competes internationally, carrying the pride of Bohol and the Philippine startup community with them.
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