Last July 6, over 150 student innovators from across the country gathered at the Urban Land Institute (ULI) Library in De La Salle University’s Rufino Campus for ENVision 2025, the annual case competition hosted by NOVUS in partnership with TAJARA Hospitality Group and ULI Philippines. With this year’s theme, “Closing the Loop: Circular Solutions for Sustainable Hospitality,” the competition invited high school and college students to rethink the future of hospitality and tourism through the lens of the circular economy. Teams were challenged to develop sustainability-focused business proposals that didn’t just reduce waste but reimagined it as opportunity. 

Throughout the day, students presented their ideas to a panel of professionals in sustainability, hospitality, and innovation. These judges evaluated each proposal’s feasibility, impact, and long-term potential, while encouraging participants to consider a deeper question: how can circular thinking create real, lasting change for communities? After a full day of pitching and thoughtful Q&A, three teams stood out as the top winners of ENVision 2025. Each team demonstrated a unique yet grounded approach to circular innovation.

The title of first place went to Optimeal by Team BravEco from FAITH Colleges in Tanauan, Batangas. The team introduced an AI-powered platform that streamlines food service operations by predicting demand, optimizing inventory, and minimizing food waste. The judges commended the team for its strong balance of technical innovation and market readiness. With a clear understanding of data privacy, scalability, and systems thinking, their solution addressed a major hospitality challenge with both precision and purpose.

Second place was awarded to P.A.H.I.N.A. by Team Cup of Multourism from Philippine Science High School – Clark Campus. Named for Pag-aralan, Aklatan, Halaman, Inobasyon, Napapanahon, Arte, the project featured a 3D printer that transforms recycled waste into bio-ink. Their approach blended science, art, and environmental advocacy, offering a meaningful solution that could be localized in schools, libraries, and community centers. 

In third place was Project Linen-Cycle by Team De La Solve from De La Salle University Integrated School in Biñan, Laguna. The team proposed a social enterprise that upcycles discarded hotel linens into practical and sustainable amenities such as eye masks, slippers, and tote bags. Beyond the environmental benefit, the project aimed to empower local seamstresses and reduce textile waste in the hospitality sector. The initiative not only placed third overall but also won the People’s Choice Award, reflecting both the judges’ respect for its mission and the audience’s genuine connection to its advocacy. 

Amid the technical presentations and in-depth discussions, one lighthearted moment stood out. Judge Ludwig Federigan, declared, “Ako na ang pipindot ng buzzer.” The spontaneous reaction sparked laughter from the audience and became a memorable highlight. It was an expression of just how inspired the judges were by the ideas presented. As ENVision 2025 came to a close, it left more than winning projects. It left a message. Sustainability is not a one-time goal but an ongoing responsibility. The student participants proved that circular thinking can drive both innovation and inclusion. These students didn’t just close the loop—they expanded it. They turned challenges into creative momentum and transformed waste into meaningful opportunity.

And as one powerful line echoed through the room: “A loop keeps going.” Not just a theme, but a promise for the future.