DTI exploring support for battery firm Nascent

THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said it is exploring support for the potential expansion plans of battery technology firm Nascent Technologies Corp., as part of a broader effort to upgrade to higher-value exports.

In a statement, the DTI said it is considering assistance for pilot cell production lines and access to innovation-focused funding programs.

Nascent became the only Philippine-based company recognized in the Volta Foundation’s Annual Battery Report 2025, a global reference on battery technology.

The startup was featured in Volta’s “2025 Sodium-Ion Battery Players by Region” map. The global listing also features leading manufacturers like Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Ltd (CATL) and BYD Co. Ltd. (BYD).

Nascent is the only company in Southeast Asia pursuing a full-cell sodium-ion (Na-ion) battery system, from materials and cell design to downstream applications.

Na-ion batteries are deemed a safer and cost-effective alternative to lithium-ion technologies.

The technology also promises extended lifetimes and lower carbon footprint compared to lead-acid SLI batteries, which are also less energy efficient.

Nascent was part of the Philippine delegation in The Battery Show Asia & Mobility Tech Asia 2025 last month in Hong Kong — where it reported potential business leads of over $1 million.

“Innovations such as those being pursued by Nascent are especially important given current global pressures on energy systems and supply chains,” Trade Secretary Ma. Cristina A. Roque said. — Beatriz Marie D. Cruz