AIPO's Design Thinking Workshop Drives Collaboration and Innovation

On March 26, 2026, the Ateneo Intellectual Property Office (AIPO) hosted a successful Design Thinking Workshop at the PLDT-CTC Building, bringing together professionals from Coca-Cola Europacific Aboitiz Philippines, Ateneo Health Sciences Program, and the IMPACT NXT Project of DOST-PCIEERD. Facilitated by Ms Mariela Alcaparas and Mr Steve Chaves of AIPO, the whole-day workshop focused on creating collaborative solutions to address pressing societal challenges, with participants applying the Design Thinking methodology to a real-world case.

Photo: Awarding of certificates of completion to the participants

Addressing Real-World Issues Through Design Thinking

The workshop featured a case study focused on finding innovative solutions for jeepney drivers amid the ongoing energy crisis. Participants used the Design Thinking framework to define the problem, empathize with stakeholders, brainstorm ideas, and prototype potential solutions. The goal was to find creative ways to improve the financial stability of affected communities through collaboration.

Creating Collaborative Solutions for Impact

A key outcome of the workshop was the proposal of a collaborative program involving jeepney drivers’ associations, local government units (LGUs), and private corporations. The program aimed to provide financial literacy initiatives, increase job opportunities, and assist drivers in accessing government programs and subsidies. These efforts were designed to address long-term financial challenges and empower communities to thrive in changing economic conditions.

Photo: Low-fidelity prototype of the proposed solution

Photo: Materials used during the workshop

Eco-System Mapping to Highlight Personal Contexts

One unique aspect of the workshop was the inclusion of an "ecosystem mapping" exercise. Participants reflected on their personal contexts and ongoing projects, mapping out connections and identifying potential friction points in their relationships with stakeholders. This exercise helped participants understand how external factors might affect their professional networks and how to proactively manage these challenges. 

Cross-Industry Collaboration for Effective Solutions

The workshop showcased the power of cross-sector collaboration. By working together, participants from diverse industries were able to generate creative, practical, and sustainable solutions. The event reinforced the importance of bringing different perspectives to the table when tackling complex societal challenges.

AIPO’s Role in Fostering Innovation

AIPO’s Design Thinking Workshop is part of its ongoing efforts to drive innovation and foster collaboration across industries. By providing a platform for professionals to come together and apply Design Thinking principles, AIPO continues to support the development of solutions that address critical issues in the Philippines.

Looking Ahead

The solutions proposed during the workshop highlight the potential for collaboration to create meaningful change. AIPO is committed to continuing its efforts to bring together diverse groups to solve problems and promote sustainable development.

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Interested in how Design Thinking can help you or your team? Visit aipo.ateneo.edu/designthinking to check out our upcoming workshops for 2026. You may also send us a message at aipo@ateneo.edu for more information.