MAKATI CITY — More than 60 high school students from 32 schools across the Philippines converged in Makati City for the TechQuest National Robotics Challenge for Academia, a nationwide competition spearheaded by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and DigiPlus Foundation, the social development arm of DigiPlus Interactive Corp. For two days, students from different regions and backgrounds competed for championship honors and the opportunity to represent the Philippines on the international stage. Inside the competition venue, robots navigated challenges amid flashing sensors and enthusiastic cheers from supporters. Yet beyond the excitement of the robotics arena, the event told a larger story about a rising generation of Filipino innovators determined to demonstrate that world-class talent can flourish anywhere in the country. TechQuest became a showcase of how curiosity can evolve into innovation and how ambition can create opportunities for young Filipinos.
Celebrating Champions Across the Archipelago
Leading the competition was the University of the Cordilleras from the Cordillera Administrative Region, which emerged as the overall champion. The Philippine Science High School-SOCCSKSARGEN Region Campus secured the first runner-up position, while Cabatuan National Comprehensive High School from Region VI earned second runner-up honors. Cabatuan National Comprehensive High School also received the “Multiply the Good Award” for its inspiring video entry that highlighted how robotics transformed the students’ lives and aspirations. Meanwhile, the University of the Cordilleras was recognized for Best in Robot Design. As Attorney Leandro Angelo Aguirre, Undersecretary for Strategic Initiatives and Industry and Competency Development of DICT, noted, “Through initiatives like TechQuest are not only developing technical skills, but also fostering innovation, collaboration, and problem-solving among young Filipinos. These are the skills that will help shape the future of our nation.”
From Public Schools to the Robotics Arena
For many of the participants, the competition represented their first opportunity to travel outside their hometowns and compete at the national level. Several students came from public schools with limited access to advanced technology and spent months preparing through dedication, self-study, and teamwork. Equipped with robotic kits, programming expertise, and determination, participants designed and built autonomous robots capable of performing complex tasks under intense time pressure. The challenge measured not only technical proficiency but also creativity, adaptability, leadership, and resilience, qualities increasingly important in today’s technology-driven world.
Building a Stronger Innovation Community Through Collaboration
TechQuest was organized under DigiPlus Foundation’s FutureSmart program, part of the foundation’s long-term commitment to empowering Filipino learners through technology education, robotics training, and future-ready skills development. The event also underscored the importance of collaboration in strengthening the country’s innovation ecosystem. TechQuest was made possible through the combined efforts of DICT-SPARK, DICT-ILCDB, the Robotics and Programming Guild of the Philippines, and ZMRobo. Through their support, advanced robotics education was brought closer to students from communities across the nation.
A Platform for Future Innovators
More than a competition, TechQuest served as a platform where young Filipinos could develop technical expertise, build confidence, and connect with fellow innovators. By bringing together students from different regions, schools, and backgrounds, the event highlighted the growing potential of the country's future scientists, engineers, programmers, and technology leaders.
