10th Philippine Robothon and 2nd STEAM Education Conference Gather Future Innovators and Advocates

FEI representatives together with the winning team from Grace Christian College at the 10th Philippine Robothon

• Robothon Winners: Elizabeth Seton, Grace Christian top categories.
• STEAM Insights: Educators explore robotics integration, PISA success.
• Future Tech: Young minds tackle food security, AI, disaster response.

A surge of youthful brilliance and forward-thinking advocacy took center stage at the 10th Philippine Robothon and 2nd STEAM Education Conference. Young innovators and passionate educators came together, showcasing the Philippines' growing prowess in technology and education.

First Eduspec Inc. (FEI) and Rex Education, two prominent forces in the Philippine education sector, collaborated to bring this event to life at the National University – Nazareth School in Manila. This gathering served as a platform for the nation's brightest young minds and leading experts to converge and explore the future of robotics and STEAM education.

D.I.G.I.T.B.A.Y.A.N.: Innovation in Action at Robothon

The 10th Philippine Robothon, carrying the theme “D.I.G.I.T.B.A.Y.A.N.: Pagyabong ng Kaalaman, Pag-angat ng Bayan,” saw 138 teams from 38 schools across the country compete. The competition challenged students to demonstrate their skills in robotics and technology, tackling real-world problems.

Participants competed in two categories: the Mini Robot Challenge, which focused on food security, and the Innovative Open Category, which explored themes like inclusive education, sustainable agriculture, disaster response, and artificial intelligence for business efficiency. The students' innovative solutions highlighted the potential of technology to address critical national issues.

Awarding the Champions: Recognizing Young Talent

The awarding ceremony celebrated the achievements of the participating teams. Elizabeth Seton School Las Piñas emerged as the top winner in the Innovative Open Category – Middle School, followed by St. Mary’s College Inc., Quezon City, and Elizabeth Seton School South. San Beda College – Alabang secured first place in the Innovative Open Category – High School, with Brokenshire SOCCSKSARGEN and Immaculate Concepcion College, Balayan, taking second and third place, respectively.

Grace Christian School, Quezon City, claimed the overall victory in the Mini Robot Challenge, with GCF South Metro Christian School and Brokenshire College – Toril as first and second runners-up. The event concluded with the Philippine Robothon Emblem Turnover, officially passing the hosting duties of the 11th Philippine Robothon to the University of San Agustin – Iloilo.

STEAM for All: Exploring the Future of Education

The 2nd STEAM Education Conference provided a valuable platform for over 120 educators and school leaders to delve into the future of education. The conference, themed “STEAM for All – Coding & Robotics as Catalysts for PISA Success,” featured a keynote address by Dr. Alfons Jayson Pelgone of the Philippine Normal University.

A panel discussion, moderated by Mr. Paolo Josef Blando of the National Teachers College, explored the integration of robotics in education, its impact on student performance, and parental responses. The panelists, including Dr. Cherrie Paniamogan, Dr. Claudette Paracale, Ms. Maria Darin Tagbago, Ms. Eliana Katelyn Li, and Mr. Marc Justin Amurao, shared their insights and expertise. Dr. Sarah Villanueva of FEI Research presented a case study on Skills Assessment Programs, while Dr. Vanessa Paula Garcia discussed Quality Assurance in Instruction and Accreditation Frameworks.

The 10th Philippine Robothon and the 2nd STEAM Education Conference, organized by First Eduspec, Inc. and Rex Education, with support from the National University – Nazareth School, the Department of Science and Technology, the Department of Education, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, and private companies like SamLabs, Elex Hub Electronics, Segway, and TornBox Creatives, underscored the Philippines' commitment to fostering innovation and technological advancement.

As robotics and STEAM education continue to shape the future, these events stand as testaments to the creativity and potential of Filipino students and educators. FEI and Rex Education, along with their partners, remain dedicated to advocating for quality education and technological development. To learn more, visit the official Facebook page of the 10th Philippine Robothon.