Dozens of young innovators put their robotics skills to the test at the Robotech Cup 2026, highlighting student talent and the growing interest in science and technology in Region 1.

The competition, held on February 18 in Dagupan City, formed part of the Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week organized by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Region 1.

Students competed in two categories: Search and Rescue, and Bin Collection, where robots had to complete obstacle courses and assigned tasks

Out of 40 registered teams, only 25 advanced to the semi-final round.

“Syempre, i-showcase kung gaano kagaling yung ating mga estudyante sa public or sa private schools addressing real-world problems,” Engr. Jordan Abad, program director of Robotech Cup 2026, said.

Beyond the contest, organizers said the event served as a platform for teamwork and innovation.

“Yung experience po is super promising. Na-explore din namin yung nature ng robotics po and sa competition naman po, na-explore din namin kung paano nakaka-implicate yung robotics sa real-world situation,” Khiel Stefan Talavera, a Grade 10 student, said.

Abad said exposing students to robotics at a young age could shape their future careers.

“We start them young, then they’re going to reach their career or college level makikita nila na may potential pala. And the emerging AI and robotics, pwede silang pumunta doon,” he said.

Meanwhile, DOST formally opened two new Innovation Hubs (iHubs) in schools in Dagupan City and Lingayen, Pangasinan. The hubs aim to serve as centers for developing new ideas, research, and technology, especially for local inventors, students, and entrepreneurs in the province.