October is Filipino American History Month, and each year the California Legislature honors five individuals for their contributions to technology, literature, historical preservation, community service and film. In 2026, Diosdado “Dado” Banatao, the late benefactor of CITRIS and longtime chair of the CITRIS Advisory Board, was among those recognized for his contributions to technology and engineering.
Over the course of his career, Dado invented two foundational computing technologies: the PC chipset and graphics acceleration architecture. Additionally, he has founded and led multiple successful semiconductor companies and helped shape CITRIS’ mission of advancing technology in the public interest.
The ceremony was attended by Dado’s wife, Maria Banatao.