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Interview Feature: Alvin M. Almonte on Buhay Imbentor
In a recent episode of Buhay Imbentor, hosted by Dr. Ria Liza Centeno Canlas, Mr. Alvin M. Almonte, founder of Rosenda Back to Nature, shared his inspiring journey and the philosophy behind his brand.
Personal Journey and Inspiration
Mr. Almonte’s commitment to natural wellness began in 2008 when he adopted a vegetarian lifestyle. His dedication deepened during his time in China, where he witnessed the healing power of nature firsthand. In 2019, amidst the COVID-19 outbreak, he fell ill and sought alternative treatments. Venturing into the mountains with friends, he discovered Artemisia annua (sweet wormwood). Consuming herbal tea from this plant led to a swift recovery, reinforcing his belief in natural remedies.
Founding Rosenda Back to Nature
Inspired by these experiences, Mr. Almonte founded Rosenda Back to Nature in 2022, naming the company after his mother, Rosenda. The brand focuses on skincare products using plant-based ingredients rooted in ancient healing traditions such as Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ayurveda, and Naturopathy. Its mission is to help individuals achieve holistic health and beauty through safe, natural products.
💡 Philosophy and Advocacy
Mr. Almonte emphasizes a return to nature as a path to restoring health and beauty. He believes that natural remedies and lifestyles can prevent premature illness and enhance well-being. His philosophy is deeply spiritual: “If we go back to nature, we go back to God.”
Business Growth and Expansion
Initially, formalizing his business presented challenges, particularly regarding product registration and compliance. In 2024, he partnered with another company to obtain necessary licenses in China and began selling on platforms like Taobao. By August 2024, Rosenda Back to Nature expanded to the Philippines through Facebook and Messenger. The first major customer, Ms. Catherine dela Cruz, an OFW in Jordan, ordered 100 boxes of soap, marking a key milestone.
For the full interview, watch: 𝗕𝘂𝗵𝗮𝘆 𝗜𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗼𝗿 with Dr. Ria Canlas – Episode 59
About Dr. Ria Liza Centeno Canlas
Dr. Canlas is a distinguished Filipino engineer, technologist, and intellectual property expert. She holds a Doctorate in Technology and is a Registered Civil Engineer, Accredited Materials Engineer, and Certified Patent Agent. With over 30 years of experience, she has significantly contributed to innovation, particularly in sustainable construction and materials science. She is the founder and CEO of Po Lite Technology Inc., recognized for eco-friendly building materials, and serves as the Director of the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship at National University (NU), Philippines.
🏆 Awards and Recognitions
Dr. Canlas’s work has earned her numerous prestigious awards:
• Good Design Award Philippines (2019): Gran Prix “Malasakit” Award for addressing UN Sustainable Development Goals, and Gold Award in Materials Innovation for Po Lite Technology.
• Alfredo M. Yao Intellectual Property Award (2020): Grand Winner, Professional Category, recognizing socially relevant inventions with commercial potential.
• Top 500 Promising Global Technologies (2020): Asia’s leading deep tech pitching competition by SWITCH and Startup SG.
• Regional Invention Contest and Exhibits (RICE) (2021): Second Place and Best Video Presentation under the Likha Award.
• Outstanding Values Award (NU Oval Award) (2021): Excellence in practicing NU’s core value of innovation.
• San Pedro Calungsod Alumni Service Award (2022): Recognizing outstanding contributions in engineering practice.
Advocacy and Contributions
Dr. Canlas champions sustainable development and the protection of Filipino intellectual property. She promotes innovation to address climate change and advance resilient infrastructure. As a member of the National Innovation Council, she helps shape policies supporting innovation and entrepreneurship in the Philippines.
🏛️ Recognition in the Arts
In 2023, her Po Lite Technology was exhibited among 200 masterpieces at the National Museum of Fine Arts, Manila, celebrating 50 years of Philippine design, highlighting the synergy of science, innovation, and art.
💡 Why Dr. Ria Canlas Is the Ideal Interviewer
Dr. Canlas’s extensive background in science, technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship uniquely positions her to interview Mr. Alvin Almonte. Her understanding of sustainable practices, intellectual property, and pioneering innovations allows her to explore both the technical and philosophical aspects of Rosenda Back to Nature. Her experience ensures a discussion that is insightful, credible, and inspiring for viewers, bridging the worlds of natural wellness and scientific innovation.
