NASA kicks off 2013 FIRST Robotics Cup; Pinoy robot enthusiasts gear up

Young robot geeks in the Philippines and all over the world are now prepping for the annual FIRST Robotics Competition, launched recently by the US' own space agency.

 

On Jan. 5, the organization For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST) launched on NASA TV this year's search for the best high school robot builders. 

 

During the broadcast, FIRST founder Dean Kamen together with the competition designers, unveiled the contest rules and mechanics for this year.

 

The NASA Robotics Alliance has been a longtime supporter of the annual FIRST competition.

 

Meanwhile, the Philippines is now slowly becoming one of the top countries in international robotics competition.

 

The Philippines' Department of Science and Technology (DOST) reported that, in 2009, the country's delegation won the Rookie of the Year and the Highest Rookie Seed awards in the FIRST's regional competition in Hawaii that year.

 

In 2012, the Philippines bagged  the 3rd Best Project Award in the FIRST's sister robotics tournament, the Lego League. — TJD, GMA News