SLSU AI and ML Capstone Projects Earn 3rd Place and Finalist Honors in SiKAPtala 2026

Southern Leyte State University (SLSU) students once again demonstrates excellence in innovation and research after securing 3rd Place in the Agriculture Category during the SiKAPtala 2026: The National CS & IT Competition organized by the College of Information and Computer Studies Student Government of De La Salle University – Dasmariñas.

The award-winning project, titled “Deep Learning-Based Segmentation of Coral Cover in Underwater Images,” highlights the application of artificial intelligence and deep learning technologies for marine ecosystem monitoring and coral reef assessment. The study was developed and presented by Jefferson S. Itaok, Denissa T. Doron, Rinvee E. Betonio, Gerald S. Catina, and Jonas M. Arcken.

The project showcases the potential of computer vision and deep learning models in automating coral cover segmentation from underwater imagery, contributing to more efficient, accurate, and data-driven coral reef monitoring initiatives. The study also emphasizes the role of emerging technologies in supporting marine biodiversity conservation and sustainable environmental management.

The project showcases the potential of computer vision and deep learning models in automating coral cover segmentation from underwater imagery, contributing to more efficient, accurate, and data-driven coral reef monitoring initiatives. The study also emphasizes the role of emerging technologies in supporting marine biodiversity conservation and sustainable environmental management.

Aside from the winning entry, SLSU also proudly recognizes the accomplishments of other student research teams who advance to the national competition.

Among the finalists is the project titled “Automated Soil Identification and Classification Using Machine Learning,” developed by Renz Louie D. Besande, Alexxa Jude R. Billones, Ryan P. Cabarrubias, April Jean D. Ibaq, and Jiesyl M. Mamites. The project explores the use of machine learning algorithms in automating soil identification and classification processes to support agricultural analysis and crop recommendation systems.

Another SLSU team also qualifies in the competition with their project entitled “Development of a Machine Learning-Based Seagrass Species Classification System,” presented by Mary Joy S. Rabe, Daniela Marie N. Dublan, Jiesha Mae U. Lipardo, Elijah S. Batestil, and Ralph Dave F. Pizon. The project focuses on the use of machine learning approaches for identifying and classifying seagrass species using underwater imagery, contributing to marine ecosystem conservation and environmental education initiatives.

These entries are outputs of the capstone projects of the participating fourth-year students under the Faculty of Computing and Information Sciences (FCIS). The teams are coached and mentored by Ms. Jannie Fleur V. Oraño with the guidance and support of Dr. Czarina Ancella G. Gabi, Dean of FCIS, reflecting the university’s strong commitment to research excellence, innovation, and student development in the fields of computer science, artificial intelligence, and environmental technology.

The university also acknowledges the valuable expertise and guidance of Mr. Jerome Jack O. Napala for coral reef studies, Dr. Ian Navarette for soil-related research, and Ms. Nadine Matondo for seagrass studies, whose contributions strengthen the scientific foundation of the student projects.

The achievements of the SLSU delegates highlight the university’s continued pursuit of impactful, technology-driven solutions that address real-world environmental and agricultural challenges. These accomplishments also demonstrate the dedication, creativity, and research capability of SLSU students and faculty mentors in representing the university on the national stage.

SLSU extends its heartfelt congratulations to all participating students, coaches, advisers, experts, and university officials for bringing pride and honor to the institution through their outstanding performance in SiKAPtala 2026.