Innovation thrives where necessity meets ingenuity, and Engr. Eleanor “Lea” Olegario of LITHOS Manufacturing exemplifies this perfectly. Recognizing the urgent need for clean water in remote areas and disaster-stricken communities, Lea spearheaded the development of the ML Foldable Tank with Zeramic Filter—a pioneering solution that merges portability, efficiency, and nanotechnology to provide safe, accessible water storage and filtration.
Traditional water storage tanks are often rigid, bulky, and expensive to transport, posing significant logistical challenges in emergencies and rural settings. Lea and her team sought to change that by designing a foldable, modular water storage system integrated with a nanotechnology-based filtration system. The result is a lightweight, durable, and cost-effective innovation that makes clean water more readily available where it’s needed most.
Beyond its practicality, the technology is a game-changer in various sectors, including disaster response, water conservation, and agriculture. “This product is more than just a container; it’s a life-support system that ensures access to safe water in critical situations,” Lea emphasizes. Whether aiding humanitarian efforts or supporting sustainable farming, her invention underscores the power of technology in addressing global challenges.
As an inventor and entrepreneur, Lea understands the importance of protecting her intellectual property. Early in the development process, she took strategic steps to secure Utility Model and Industrial Design rights, ensuring her innovation remains competitive while attracting investors and strategic partners. “Protect your ideas early! IP secures your innovation and opens doors for funding and partnerships,” she advises fellow inventors. With robust IP protection in place, the ML Foldable Tank with Zeramic Filter stands as a testament to the impact of well-guarded innovation.
Looking ahead, Lea is committed to expanding IP protections for future product versions and complementary technologies, ensuring continuous growth and advancement. Her journey serves as an inspiration to women in STEM and entrepreneurship, demonstrating how creativity, perseverance, and strategic thinking can drive meaningful change.
Women’s Month may be a time to celebrate achievements, but Lea Olegario’s work reminds us that innovation knows no calendar—it’s an ongoing pursuit of solutions that improve lives and empower communities every day.
