Teacher Mary Rose Caparas and Teacher Mary Ann Nicole Barcelon Matic represented Isidore de Seville Integrated School as they observed the 23rd Philippine Robotics Olympiad (PRO), held on July 23, 2024, at Ayala Malls Trinoma, which marked another exciting chapter in the realm of youth robotics and innovation. Organized under the theme “Earth Allies” which brought together young minds from different schools to showcase their skills in building and programming robots.
Ms. Rochelle Fajardo skillfully hosted the event. Ms. Mylene Abiva, CEO/President of Felta, highlighted robotics’ educational significance in her opening remarks, recognizing participants from various schools. A compelling audiovisual presentation reviewed the past PRO and WRO Online 2023 events in Panama, followed by Ms. Margarita Ballesteros’s motivational message, underscoring STEM education’s role in nurturing future innovators.
The competition commenced at 11:00 am and extended until 9:00 pm, featuring distinct challenges tailored for Elementary, Junior High School, and Senior High School levels. Each level tackled a specific mission aligned with the theme “Earth Allies”. For elementary: Robo-Mission – Sustainable Farming; for Junior High School: Robo-Mission – Green City; and for the Senior High School: RoboMission – Force of Nature.
Participants adhered to strict rules and were allotted time for laptop setup and refreshments before diving into the rigorous competition. A notable regulation prohibited communication with parents and coaches during the event, emphasizing independence and problem-solving skills among the contestants.
Teachers Mary and Nicole noticed that the evaluation criteria emphasized technical proficiency, product design, and the thoroughness of project research. Every team not only built robots but also presented and defended their projects centered around the theme “Earth Allies.” Each level introduced unexpected rules to test participants and vary the scoring criteria, ensuring the competition remained lively and stimulating.
Highlighting future prospects, winners in the WeDo category earned a chance to compete in Hong Kong on August 3, 2024. The upcoming Global Artificial Intelligence Robotics Competition (GAR) was announced, promising new avenues for aspiring engineers to explore AI-driven innovations in robotics.
The 23rd PRO underscored the Philippines’ commitment to nurturing young talent in robotics and fostering environmental consciousness through innovation. As participants departed with newfound experiences and achievements, the event served as a testament to the power of STEM education in shaping a sustainable future.
Based on their observations, Teachers Mary and Nicole are confident that Isidorean learners and teacher-trainers could participate in future competitions. The Philippine Robotics Olympiad serves as a catalyst, inspiring and challenging the upcoming generation of innovators to embody the spirit of “Earth Allies” and tackle global challenges head-on.