In a monumental initiative to foster innovation and emerging talent, the Future Scientists and Technology Leaders of the Philippines (FSTLP) at Cebu Technological University-Main Campus recently showcased an impressive array of innovative products during the Product Innovation and Research Summit 2024 (PIRS โ24), held at Room 305-306, Multipurpose Hall of the College of Education Building on December 13.
With 50 participants across 14 teams, the summit featured three main categories: Sustainability, Market Trends, and Technology and a theme of “Redefining the Future: Trends in Product Design and Research,” highlighting the creativity, talent, and drive of Technologists to create solutions for a better tomorrow.
The morning session featured Dr. Norberto M. Secretaria, Research Director of the College of Management and Entrepreneurship, who delivered an inspiring keynote address on โExploring Innovations and Strategic Approaches in a Rapidly Changing Worldโ. His talk emphasized the importance of mindset, strategy, and perseverance in shaping a future driven by science and technology.
During the product presentations in the afternoon, participants showcased their innovative solutions in sustainability, market trends, and technology, which were assessed by a panel of esteemed judges, including three from DPWH-Cebu 6th DEO: Engr. Gumer M. Castillo, District Engineer; Engr. Ritchel A. Blasabas, Head of the Contract Management Unit; Engr. Ramil M. Banga, Head of the Material Testing Unit; Dr. Leoncio T. Lucero Jr., FSTLP Adviser; and Mr. Leonil Ryan Dela Peรฑa, Senior TED Specialist.
In the Sustainability Category, the top three products included Calm & Go Oregano Relaxing Oil, a natural wellness product; followed by K n’ Bites Musa Burger, a banana-based food innovation; and Eco-Bricks, an eco-friendly construction material made from recycled plastics.
The Market Trends Category featured products designed to meet current consumer demands. Coffee-Tea-for-U, a customizable beverage experience, took the top spot, followed by Hupay de Camphora Pain Relief Balm, a natural pain relief solution, and RaiSun Berry Delight, a nutritious snack made from local berries.
In the Technology Category, two standout innovations were ResQube, clinching first place with an emergency response bag for disaster management, and DigiPA at second place with its application aimed at calculating GPA scores with ease through PDF file scanning.
Dr. Ramel C. Genobiagon, Campus Director of CTU Main Campus, one of the keynote speakers, emphasized that behind all the emerging technologies lies the resilience of the human heart, and without it, the technologies we have built are meaningless.
โWhat sets humans apart from robots (or any other technologies) is the human heart,โ said Dr. Genobiagon.
PIRS โ24 not only provided a venue for students to present their groundbreaking ideas but also facilitated networking with industry professionals, fostering a spirit of collaboration and idea exchange, while serving as a testament to CTUโs commitment to nurturing future leaders and innovators who are poised to drive change in the realms of sustainability, technology, and market trends.
