Together, We Empower Women
and Shape the Future
Join the BABAE AKO PARA SA BAYAN Partylist in championing women's rights and creating a better nation for all.
Our Agenda - What We’re Good At
Empowering lives and driving progress through purposeful actions for every Filipino.
Karunungan (Education)
Empowering communities through access to quality education, nurturing the leaders of tomorrow.
Kalusugan (Healthcare)
Ensuring affordable, accessible, and effective healthcare services for every Filipino.
Kababaihan (Women Empowerment)
Promoting gender equality and creating opportunities for women to thrive.
Kalinga (Support for the Disabled, Elderly, and Youth)
Providing care, protection, and resources to vulnerable members of society.
Komunikasyon (Communication)
Enhancing connectivity to bridge gaps and foster growth in every corner of the nation.
Kapaligiran (Environment)
Advocating for environmental preservation and sustainable development practices.
Kaunlaran (Infrastructure)
Developing modern infrastructure to drive economic growth and improve quality of life.
About Us
The BABAE AKO Partylist is a movement dedicated to empowering women and championing their rights, ensuring equality, and contributing to nation-building.
- Advocating for women's empowerment and equal opportunities in all sectors of society.
- Supporting programs that uplift the lives of Filipino women and their families.
- Promoting policies that address gender equality and social justice.
With a vision to build a nation where women are active contributors and leaders, the BABAE AKO Partylist is committed to creating opportunities, promoting inclusive development, and standing against discrimination and abuse. Together, we can shape a brighter and more equitable future for all.
Meet Our Nominee: Dr. RIA CANLAS
Dr. RIA CANLAS, by profession, is a Registered Civil Engineer, Accredited Materials Engineer 1, and Certified Patent Agent. She began her engineering career at a triple-A construction company handling high-rise buildings, then worked at the office of Aber P. Canlas & Associates where she handled several government projects and was trained by a former DPWH Deputy Minister. Trying to find her passion, she decided to juggle between contracting and teaching. While in the academe, she was a passionate researcher who leveled up to innovation when she put up a company, Po Lite Technology Inc., that commercializes “Po-Lite,” a sterling example of how scientific research guided by design thinking principles and combined with art can create useful materials in the human settlement sector. Her company, which was funded by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), has been lauded as socially impactful as it utilizes indigenous raw materials. Her inventions made her win national and institutional awards.
Achievements and Contributions
Education Background
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Thames International
Innovation and Creative Entrepreneurship (ICE) Management Diploma (2021-2022) - Design Center Philippines Scholarship -
Technological University of the Philippines
Doctor of Technology (2005-2015) -
Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila
Masters in Engineering Management, major in Construction Management (1991-2003) -
Mapua Institute of Technology (Mapua University)
Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering (1985-1990) -
Espiritu Santo Parochial School
Secondary Education Graduate (1981-1985)
Elementary Graduate (1975-1981) - Class Deportment
Professional Experience
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President/CEO, Eco Couture Real Estate Design and Development Inc. (02/08/2024 - Present)
Role: Start-Up Founder -
Executive Member, National Innovation Council (05/30/2023 - Present)
Role: Philippine Presidential Appointee -
Patent Expert, Spruson and Ferguson (Asia) Ltd. (06/28/2023 - Present)
Role: Consultant -
President/CEO, Po Lite Technology Inc. (02/14/2017 - Present)
Role: Start-Up Founder -
General Manager, RPMH IT & Engineering Services (06/2008 - Present)
Role: Managerial -
Director of Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, National University (06/04/2014 - 03/31/2024)
Role: Managerial -
ITSO Personnel, Senior Researcher, Department Head, Faculty Member, Lyceum of the Philippines University (06/15/1998 - April, 2016)
Role: Supervisory -
General Manager, Cactech Construction (November, 1992 - June, 1998)
Role: Owner -
Faculty Member, Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (June, 1993 - May, 1996)
Role: Faculty Member -
Civil Engineer, Aber P. Canlas & Associates, Inc. (January, 1993 - December, 1993)
Role: Project Engineer -
Field/Cost Engineer, A.M. Oreta & Company, Inc. (January, 1991 - March, 1992)
Role: Cadet Engineer
Management of Innovation Projects, Programs, and Activities
-
Project Title: “Big Data Analytics and Mapping of Emerging Industry Landscape in the ASEAN: Implications to Higher Education”
Funding Agency/Source: Commission on Higher Education (CHED)
Role: Project Leader
Status: Completed
Duration: October 2021 - November 2022 -
Project Title: “Optimization of an Industry Grade Prototype of Po-lite Products”
Funding Agency/Source: Department of Science and Technology
Role: Project Leader
Status: Completed
Duration: December 2018 - December 2020 -
Project Title: “A Study of Technological Management Practices of Multi-Stakeholders in Estero de Paco”
Funding Agency/Source: Department of Science and Technology
Role: Assistant Project Leader
Status: Completed
Duration: June 2009 - May 2010 -
Project Title: “Determinants of Best Practices on Practicum Programs of Selected Higher Education Institutions in the Philippines”
Funding Agency/Source: Commission on Higher Education (CHED)
Role: Project Leader
Status: Completed
Duration: June 2008 - May 2009 -
Project Title: “Outcomes of Business Social Responsibility Programs of the Top Five Semi-Conductor Companies in the Philippines”
Funding Agency/Source: Commission on Higher Education (CHED)
Role: Project Leader
Status: Completed
Duration: June 2007 - May 2008 -
Project Title: "Research Program on Research for a Sustainable Urban-Renewed Environment (ReASURE)”
Funding Agency/Source: Lyceum of the Philippines University
Role: Project Leader
Status: Completed
Duration: November 2008 - May 2016 -
Project Title: “Beauty Line Finished Ingredients, Specialty Products and Packaging”
Funding Agency/Source: Lyceum of the Philippines University
Role: Project Leader
Status: Completed
Duration: November 2013 - March 2016 -
Project Title: "The Core: Hastening the Creation of a Leading Innovation Culture in NU Philippines"
Funding Agency/Source: National University
Role: Project Leader
Status: Completed
Details: Among the Top 10 entries in the PACUCOA 2021 General Assembly's search for Best Case Study
Duration: August 2021 - (Completed)
Development of Intellectual Properties (IP)
-
Name of IP: An Eco-Couture Panel System and A Method of Manufacture of Prefabricated Building Materials
Type of IP: Trade Secret (For filing of Patents and Industrial Design)
Registration/Application No.: Not specified
Role: Project Leader (Inventor) -
Name of IP: Development of mobile and web applications of an integrated commuter information on the connectivity of Metro Manila train system (iCommute)
Type of IP: Patent (Ongoing application)
Registration/Application No.: Not specified
Role: Assistant Project Leader (Inventor)
List of Publications
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Title: A Future Design for the Sustainable Urban Renewal of Manila Mega City of the Philippines
Co-Authors: Custer Deocaris, Engr. Joseph Retumban
Year: Submitted
Publisher: Springer
Scopus-Indexed: Yes -
Title: The Core: Hastening the Creation of a Leading Innovation Culture in NU Philippines
Co-Authors: Dale Cataquis, Rafael Dimaculangan, Manuelito Octaviano, Joseph Retumban
Year: 2022
Publisher: PACUCOA
Scopus-Indexed: No -
Title: Preliminary investigation on the production of alternative fuel using shampoo sachets and polystyrene blend via catalytic pyrolysis
Co-Authors: Retumban, J.D., Chiong J.C., Cinco R.C.C., Ursua L.C.
Year: 2021
Publisher: IEEE
Scopus-Indexed: Yes -
Title: A Comparative Finite Element Analysis of a Two-Story Residential Building Using Concrete Hollow Blocks and Po-lite Hollow Blocks
Co-Authors: Talusan A.B., Principe M.T.J.N., DyReyes V., Regonios C.A.
Year: 2021
Publisher: IEEE
Scopus-Indexed: Yes -
Title: Finite Element Analysis on a Single-story Geodesic Dome Structure Using Combination of Po-Lite Hollow Blocks and Cold-Formed Steel
Co-Authors: Principe M.T.J.N., Riego G.S., DyReyes V.
Year: 2021
Publisher: IEEE
Scopus-Indexed: Yes -
Title: How do people view the estuary and the technology management practices to rehabilitate it?': The case of Estero de Paco in Manila
Co-Authors: Bringula R.P., Afable J.M., Santos MC, Ancheta A.A.
Year: 2014
Publisher: IEEE
Scopus-Indexed: Yes -
Title: Determinants of the best practices on practicum programs in engineering courses of selected higher education institutes in the Philippines
Co-Authors: Borja M.R., Macapagal L.D., Hinojales E.
Year: 2013
Publisher: IEEE
Scopus-Indexed: Yes -
Title: A Study of Multinational Companies in Thailand and Philippines: The Use of Mediation Paradigm on Corporate Social Responsibility
Co-Authors: Tiwa Park, Marlon Fortunato, Devy Galang, Irene Cruz
Year: 2016
Publisher: International Journal of Management and Applied Science (IJMAS)
Scopus-Indexed: No -
Title: A Study of Multinational Companies in Philippines: The Use of Mediation Paradigm on Social Responsibility
Co-Authors: Tiwa Park, Marlon Fortunato, Devy Galang, Irene Cruz
Publisher: First International Conference on Humanities and Social Sciences (ICHUSS-1) at St. Thomas’ College (Autonomous), Thrissur, Kerala, India
Scopus-Indexed: No -
Title: Clearing, Cleaning and Greening of Estero de Paco (Technology Management in Estero)
Co-Authors: Bringula R.P., Afable J.M., Santos MC, Ancheta A.A.
Year: 2011
Publisher: Pasig River Stewardship through Science, Technology and Advocacy
Scopus-Indexed: No -
Title: Performance Indicators Measurement of Kaunlaran Project Component of the Buhayin ang Maynila 8k Point Program
Co-Authors: Bringula R.P.
Year: 2007
Publisher: Lyceum of the Philippines Engineering Journal Volume 1 Issue Number 3
Scopus-Indexed: No -
Title: Scenario Building of General Trias at Year 2010 Using Remotely Sensed Data: Prospects for the Lyceum of the Philippines
Co-Authors: Bringula R.P.
Year: 2007
Publisher: Lyceum of the Philippines Engineering Journal Volume 1 Issue Number 2
Scopus-Indexed: No -
Title: Federacion Internationale des Ingineurs Conseils (Fidic) Conditions of Contract & Its Applicability to Philippine Domestic Project
Year: 2007
Publisher: Lyceum of the Philippines Engineering Journal Volume 1 Issue Number 1
Scopus-Indexed: No -
Title: Statistics
Co-Authors: Zenon R. Abao, Hadji C. Alegre, Flordelis P. Buenaseda, Ria Liza C. Canlas, Belinda T. Conde, Beda H. Esller, Eugenio S. Guhao, Jr., Gresilda E. Jalon, Jose B. Maribbay, Violeta C. Mendoza, Jesus P. Mercado, Fe G. Partible, Anita D. Santiago, Eduardo T. Senajon, Aurora E. Vila, Roland S. Zorsa
Year: 2009
Publisher: Books Atbp. Publishing Corp., ISBN 978-971-0388-73-8
Scopus-Indexed: No
Participation in Innovation Activities
-
Year: March, 2023 to Present
Event: Available upon request -
Year: March 12, 2023
Event: “Emerging Technologies in Construction and Energy” by the Civil Engineering Society of the Technological University of the Philippines
Role: Speaker
Coverage: National -
Year: March 11, 2023
Event: Convene stakeholders for Youth for National and Good Governance (YOUNG)
Role: Facilitator
Coverage: National -
Year: December 19, 2022
Event: Research Presentation of University of Rizal System
Role: Panel
Coverage: Regional -
Year: December 7, 2022
Event: Philippines-ASEAN Conference on Big Data Mapping of Emerging Industries
Role: Project Leader
Coverage: International -
Year: December 2, 2022
Event: Technical Panel at DOST-TAPI
Role: Panel
Coverage: National -
Year: November 27 to December 1, 2022
Event: OPHIR Harvest Agri-Farm Planning
Role: Presenter
Coverage: Regional -
Year: November 22 and 24, 2022
Event: Technical Panel at DOST-TAPI
Role: Panel
Coverage: National -
Year: November 18, 2022
Event: “Green And Sustainable Living By Po-Lite Eco-Couture Panel System” by Letran College’s Grandcon
Role: Speaker
Coverage: Institutional -
Year: November 8, 2022
Event: “Innovation in the Construction Industry” by the Mapua CE-EnSE Alumni Association
Role: Speaker
Coverage: Regional -
Year: October 26, 2022 to Present
Event: Product Development for the 12 crops of AETAs Kanawan, Morong, Bataan, a collaborative work with students, faculty, and scientists
Role: Social Enterprise Head
Coverage: Regional -
Year: October 14, 2022
Event: 8th Annual Balik Scientist Program (BSP) Convention
Role: As BSP Host Institution
Coverage: National -
Year: October 2, 2022
Event: A Prototype for 1st Southeast Asia’s Eco-Agro Tourism Social Enterprise Hub (Community Immersion at the Kanawan Tribe, Morong, Bataan)
Role: Organizer
Coverage: Regional -
Year: September 27, 2022
Event: Transforming R&D Outputs into Innovations through Technopreneurship and Customer Validation (TRANSDI) Caravan
Role: Speaker
Coverage: Regional -
Year: September 16, 2022
Event: 7th National R&D Conference
Role: Speaker
Coverage: National -
Year: August 26, 2022
Event: Concrete for Young Entrepreneurs by the American Concrete Institute of the Philippines
Role: Speaker
Coverage: National -
Year: August 25, 2022
Event: Graduation of the DOST-funded Training on Finite Element Analysis with the BSP
Role: Organizer
Coverage: National
Key Strengths of Dr. Ria Liza Canlas
Dr. Ria Canlas embodies qualities that make her an outstanding nominee for the BABAE AKO Partylist.
Memberships in Associations
Recognizing the affiliations and contributions of Dr. RIA CANLAS to various organizations.
Filipino Women Inventors & Innovators Inc. (FILWIN)
PresidentNationwide (2024 - Present)
Southeast Asia Emerging Industries Consortium
FounderInternational (2022 - Present)
Researchers, Inventors, Scientists & Engineers of the Phils, Inc. (RISE)
Vice PresidentNationwide (2022 - Present)
Philippine Association of University Women (PAUW)
National AuditorNationwide (2020 - Present)
Finite Element Institute of the Philippines (FEIP)
Founder and PresidentNationwide (2019 - Present)
Filipino Inventors Federation (FILINFED)
Board of DirectorNationwide (2019 - Present)
American Concrete Institute, Philippines Chapter (ACIP)
MemberNationwide (2018 - Present)
Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers (PICE)
Lifetime MemberNationwide (2017 - Present)
Media Publications
Explore the various media appearances and publications of Dr. RIA CANLAS.
- Radio Interview at Pinoy Scientist Radyo Agila DZEC 1062
- Caritas in Action, Radyo Veritas, DZRV 846, November 9, 2022
- CNN, Earth Hour, Sustainability on the Construction Industry
- RICE NCR Likha Public Award Finalist: Pre-fabricated Eco-Couture Panel System Building Materials
- Episode 57 – Green Technology in Housing, Ikonsulta mo kay Doc EG, June 27, 2021
- Naval Sea Systems Command Facebook Page, Philippine Navy, May 10, 2021
- Report: ASEAN Design Products Webinar, ASEAN-Japan Centre, April 28, 2021
- ASEAN Design Products Webinar: Philippines, Session 1 (March 29, 2021)
- ABS-CBN News: Filipino design-driven businesses introduced to Japanese market
- NewBeat News: Produkto ng ilang Pinoy designer-entrepreneurs, ipinakilala sa Japanese market
- Malaya Business Insight: Designer-entrepreneurs’ products put in the spotlight
- Adobo Magazine: ASEAN designers take the spotlight in ASEAN Design Products webinar
- Daily Guardian: ASEAN designers take the spotlight in ASEAN Design Products webinar
- DOST-TAPI: Think Like A Girl: 10 Amazing Pinay Game Changers in Science
- National-U Philippines: Congratulations Director for Innovation and Entrepreneurship
- Good Design Award Philippines (GDA): Winners
- Bluprint: Good Design Award Philippines recognizes impact-driven design solutions
- Pinoy Scientist Show: Radio Interview
Recognitions and Awards
Acknowledging the exceptional contributions and accomplishments of Dr. RIA CANLAS.
-
Award Title: San Pedro Calungsod Alumni Service Award in Engineering Practice
Year: 2022
Award-Giving Body: Espiritu Santo Parochial School Manila
Description: The first competitive award given to Outstanding Alumni as approved by the Archbishop of Manila. -
Award Title: Second Place and Best Video Presentation for the Regional Invention Contest and Exhibits (RICE) under the Likha Award
Year: 2021
Award-Giving Body: Technology Application and Promotion Institute (TAPI), DOST, and DOST-NCR
Description: Recognizes contributions of inventions and research in national development through a friendly competition. -
Award Title: Outstanding Values Award (NU Oval Award) in NU CORE Value of INNOVATION
Year: 2021
Award-Giving Body: National University
Description: An annual award given to selected employees excelling in the practice of NU’s core values. -
Award Title: Grand Winner in the Professional Category of the Alfredo M. Yao Intellectual Property Award (AMY IP AWARD)
Year: 2020
Award-Giving Body: Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) and PCCI
Description: Recognizes socially relevant inventions by Filipinos with commercial potential and societal impact. -
Award Title: Finalist - Tech Planter Philippines
Year: 2020
Award-Giving Body: Leave A Nest Singapore Pte. Ltd.
Description: An acceleration and pitch competition focusing on Deep Tech innovations. -
Award Title: Top 500 Promising Global Technologies
Year: 2020
Award-Giving Body: Slingshot
Description: Asia's most exciting deep tech pitching competition hosted by SWITCH and Startup SG. -
Award Title: Special Award in the field of Research and Development
Year: 2019
Award-Giving Body: Mapua University, CE-ENSE Alumni Association
Description: Recognizes Alumni for winning various national awards. -
Award Title: Gran Prix "Malasakit" Awardee - Good Design Award
Year: 2019
Award-Giving Body: Design Center Philippines (DCP) and DTI
Description: Highest recognition for addressing UN Sustainability Goals. Only one awardee per ceremony. -
Award Title: Gold Awardee - Materials Innovation, Good Design Award
Year: 2019
Award-Giving Body: Design Center Philippines (DCP) and DTI
Description: Highest-rated design in the field of Materials Innovation for best application of judging criteria. -
Award Title: CE-ENSE Outstanding Alumni in the field of Research and Development
Year: 2017
Award-Giving Body: MIT CE-ENSE Alumni Association of Mapua University
Description: Annual award given to Alumni excelling in a particular category.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to common queries about our mission, goals, and how you can contribute to the BABAE AKO Partylist's initiatives.
What is the main mission of the BABAE AKO Partylist?
Our mission is to empower women and communities through education, healthcare, and sustainable development initiatives while advocating for gender equality and social welfare.
How can I support the BABAE AKO Partylist?
You can support us by raising awareness about our advocacy, participating in our programs, and voting for BABAE AKO in the upcoming elections. Donations and volunteerism are also welcome.
What initiatives does BABAE AKO focus on?
We focus on programs such as quality education for all, accessible healthcare, women empowerment, livelihood opportunities, environmental preservation, and infrastructure development to uplift communities.
How do your programs support women specifically?
Our programs create opportunities for women in education, entrepreneurship, and leadership roles while ensuring policies are implemented to protect their rights and promote gender equality.
What are the upcoming projects of BABAE AKO?
Upcoming projects include community livelihood programs, educational scholarships for underprivileged youth, healthcare outreach initiatives, and partnerships to advance sustainability practices in local communities.
Contact
If you have any inquiries, feel free to reach out to BABAE AKO PARA SA BAYAN, INC. We're here to assist you!
Address
1402 Wilshire Plaza Condo, Annapolis St. Greenhills
San Juan City, Philippines
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