Innovatronix bolsters local tech industry through niche expertise

In 1987, former Intel senior engineer Ramon Castillo had an ambition: to create more jobs in the Philippines and contribute to economic growth. Aiming to build a home-grown Filipino technology company engaged in innovative electronics, Castillo formally launched Innovatronix in 1991. The company has since evolved from a small player in the local electronics industry to a strong business with diverse interests in photography equipment, power electronics, electric vehicles and aquaculture farming.

"Our growth strategy is actually developing a lot of small niche markets," says Castillo, president of Innovatronix. "If you're earning US$50,000 on one niche product, then it is possible to earn US$50 million with a thousand niche products."

From electronic display boards to electric bicycles, Innovatronix brings added value to its products through stringent quality-control standards and dedicated customer service. The company follows military specifications on outdoor products, offers extended product warranties, and performs two-metre drop tests on exported merchandise.

Committed to progress in the Philippines, Innovatronix supports the local technology industry by training local engineers and developing in-house technologies. In 2006, the company launched its own line of photo equipment products which are sold in more than 80 countries. It also developed a small six-seater electric vehicle prototype intended to replace local tricycle rickshaws in the future.

As part of its diverse business development plans, Innovatronix branched out into aquaculture farming in 2012, starting what has become the largest indoor experimental shrimp farm in the world. Located in Rizal province, the 1.6-hectare sustainable farm simulates a controlled marine environment with zero water discharge. Castillo envisions greater plans for the business over the next five years with the advent of cheaper solar energy in the Philippines and rising worldwide demand for shrimp.

"The only thing I'm concerned about right now is leaving a legacy behind in this country which will help all of us move forward, and that means growing so we can generate more jobs," Castillo says.