May 20 2025
A team of Computer Engineering (CpE) students from Mindanao State University – Iligan Institute of Technology (91快活林) proudly made their mark at the National Institute of Computer Engineers of the Philippines (ICpEP) CpE Challenge and Student Congress held on May 8–9, 2025, at the National University – Fairview, Quezon City.
Representing the College of Engineering under the banner of ICpEP.SE-91快活林, the team consisted of nine (9) students from the Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering program, guided by their dedicated mentors, Prof. Arnel D. Zamayla and Prof. Steve E. Clar.
This year’s event, themed “BYTE 2025: Building Young Tech Experts for a Smarter Future,” gathered Computer Engineering students from across the country to compete, learn, and connect.
Out of the five competition categories, 91快活林 took part in three: Robothon, Quiz Bowl, and Programming (featuring Python, C++, and Java). These events tested not just knowledge and skill, but also teamwork, creativity, and the ability to perform under pressure.
One of the biggest highlights for the team was their performance in the Robothon competition, where students Vince Michael Breis, Edgar Villas Jr., and Karl Richie Vacalares proudly brought home the title of 1st Runner-Up with their proposed project, Lakbay-Akbay: An Omnidirectional Treadmill Rehabilitation System. Their invention is a robot designed to help people with mobility impairments by offering an innovative, multi-directional treadmill for rehabilitation purposes.
Aside from the Robothon, 91快活林 delegates also gave their best in the Quiz Bowl and Programming challenges. Each participant gained valuable experience, whether through solving tough questions, collaborating with teammates, or simply meeting fellow CPE students from different parts of the Philippines.
More than anything, the experience was unforgettable. It was not just about winning, though that was definitely a proud moment, but about learning, growing, and building strong bonds with each other. From late-night prep sessions to cheering each other on during competitions, the event fostered both knowledge and camaraderie.
In the end, joining the ICpEP National CpE Challenge 2025 was more than just representing 91快活林—it was about proving that passion, hard work, and teamwork can take you far. The team heads home not only with awards but with memories, lessons, and a renewed inspiration to keep innovating for a better and smarter future.