Computer Engineering Champions Regional Agri-Aqua Products and Innovation Pitching Competition 2024
Computer Engineering students Edmel Jay G. Escabal, Robert T. Jova, and Jude Michael G. Red, in collaboration with their advisers Engr. Khorina O. Aguilar and Engr. Jonelle H. Tablada, were the innovators behind a remarkable achievement at the Regional Agri-Aqua Products and Innovation Pitching Competition 2024. Held on May 23, 2024, at the SLSU Library-Mini Theater, the event saw the triumph of their project, the Self-Navigating Solar Powered Aerator, which earned Aguilar the prestigious Best Pitcher Award and a cash prize of PHP 5,000. This technology promises to revolutionize aquaculture with its sustainable and efficient water aeration solution, demonstrating potential to significantly enhance productivity and environmental sustainability.
The competition, organized under the RAISE IP-TBM Project in collaboration with Samar State University and Southern Leyte State University, attracted participants from several SUCs in Region 8, including Visayas State University, Biliran Province State University, Eastern Visayas State University, the University of Eastern Philippines, and the host, Southern Leyte State University.
DOST PCAARRD-TTPD Division Assistant Director Ms. Lucy A. Lastimosa and Mr. Michael Angelo Badillo graced the event, and the distinguished panel of judges comprised Ms. Meilou C. Macabare, Provincial Director of the Department of Trade and Industry Samar, Dr. Vivian L. Moya, Director of the IP-TBM Office of SSU, and Ms. Lastimosa.
Visayas State University secured first place with Ms. Mary Rose M. Maniego's Vacuum Fried Sweet Potato, winning PHP 3,000. Biliran Province State University took second place with Mr. Eric John D. Celis' Mobile System and Method for Cacao Disease Classification using Convolutional Neural Networks, receiving PHP 2,000.
The event was a resounding success, highlighting the ingenuity and creativity within Region 8's academic institutions. It celebrated innovation and emphasized the importance of collaboration in advancing the region's agriculture and aquaculture sectors. As the RAISE IP-TBM Project continues to promote such initiatives, the future looks bright for agri-aqua innovation in Region 8, promising significant contributions to sustainable development in the Philippines.
