Diosdado “Dado” Banatao, a Filipino engineer recognized as one of Silicon Valley’s most influential technology pioneers, died on Dec. 25, at age 79 in Stanford, California, where he helped advance microchip and computer technology used worldwide.
Banatao, who was born in the Philippines and later moved to the United States, built a career in Silicon Valley, where he contributed to the development of microchips that improved the performance and affordability of personal computers.
Family members and associates reported his death on Dec. 25, confirming that the engineer, investor and philanthropist died in Stanford, California, at age 79.
Banatao’s work in microchip and computer technology gained recognition in the Philippines and the United States, where universities, technology groups and business organizations cited his contributions to engineering and innovation.
Technology industry accounts described Banatao as one of the first Filipino engineers to reach prominence in Silicon Valley, where he founded and led companies that developed semiconductor and computer solutions.
Officials and organizations connected with Banatao’s professional and philanthropic work prepared tributes and statements that highlighted his impact on microchip development and computer technology after news of his death circulated.
