By Brian Campued
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday called on the members of the Philippine Robotics National Team (PRNT) to continue pursuing innovations that could help improve the lives of Filipinos.
During the courtesy call of the PRNT at Malacañan Palace, the President hailed the young Filipino innovators for their achievements in international robotics competitions and recognized their contributions to showcasing Filipino ingenuity and excellence on the global stage.
“Congratulations to everyone…Well done. Siyempre naman talagang napapakita muli na ang Pilipino ay kayang makipagsabayan kahit saan, kahit kanino,” he said. “Nakita naman natin how capable Filipinos are, how dedicated they are, and how hardworking they are… Filipino talent has shone through.”
The PRNT is composed of students who have excelled in global robotics and innovation events such as the World Robot Olympiad and the FIRST LEGO League. Student awardees came from schools across the country, including institutions in Batangas, Nueva Ecija, Bulacan, Muntinlupa City, Albay, Legazpi City, and Quezon City.
The delegation was accompanied by officials of FELTA Multi-Media Inc., recognized as one of the pioneering organizations that introduced robotics technology into Philippine basic education.
The Chief Executive encouraged the students to continue pursuing their ideas and innovations despite challenges.
“Once you get an idea, don’t let go of it because it really matters. Stay with it even when it gets hard, even when you lose spirit for a little while. Stay with it.. and it will all be worth the effort,” he said.
“You’re young and you have a long way to go. So keep going, and in that way, you improve the ease of living here in the Philippines for your countrymen,” he added.
During the event, President Marcos Jr. also witnessed demonstrations of award-winning robotics projects developed by students, including SYLAX, an assistive mobility device for children with cerebral palsy; and FRANCIS, an artificial intelligence-powered companion robot designed to assist households and detect emergencies.
As a self-proclaimed geek, the President even tried operating TUKLAS, a robotic arm system that helps archaeologists locate and document cultural artifacts.
“President Marcos has been actively promoting robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), automation, and advanced technology education as part of his administration’s broader digitalization agenda under Bagong Pilipinas, which aims to build a more innovative, future-ready, and globally competitive Philippines,” the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said.
-jpv
