The Motherboard

𝗘𝗺𝗽𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝗼𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀: 𝗠𝗦𝗨-𝗜𝗜𝗧 𝗦𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝗧𝗿𝗶𝘂𝗺𝗽𝗵 𝗮𝘁 𝗜𝗦𝗣𝗔𝗥𝗞 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗣𝗶𝘁𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗲𝘁𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟰

Aspiring students Tristan E. Listanco from the College of Computer Studies (CCS) and Princess Myer V. Fajardo from the College of Engineering (COE) at Mindanao State University - Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT) were recognized at the ISPARK International Pitching Competition 2024 on September 20, 2024. They received the Outstanding Science and Technology Innovation Award, along with a certificate, on October 19, 2024, during the awards ceremony held at Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology.

Reflecting on their journey, Listanco described the experience as "fulfilling," especially given the limited time they had to prepare. Fajardo, meanwhile, found it "nerve-racking." Despite obstacles such as revising their paper just six hours before the deadline and dealing with early discouragement, their commitment to advancing sustainable development through water resilience studies kept them motivated.

Fajardo offered meaningful advice to future researchers: "Take that step or leap of faith because you don't know what will happen if you just take the risk." Listanco emphasized the importance of continuous learning, stating, "If you don't acquire new knowledge, you won't succeed."

Recently, they were selected as finalists to compete in the 2024 Swiss Innovation Prize Competition, scheduled for November 19-21, 2024, in Makati City, Philippines, where they will further showcase their innovative solution.

Listanco and Fajardo's accomplishment underscores their dedication and creativity, highlighting the significance of sustainability. Their success serves as an inspiration for others to pursue their passions with perseverance and commitment to finding sustainable solutions.

Report by Jhen Krizziah Mercado
Proofread by Althea Grace Amsali

𝗜𝗡 𝗖𝗔𝗦𝗘 𝗬𝗢𝗨 𝗠𝗜𝗦𝗦𝗘𝗗 𝗜𝗧 | The Mindanao State University - Iligan Institute of Technology Integrated Performing Arts Guild (MSU-IIT IPAG) successfully hosted a four-day training session held at the Institute Gymnasium on October 14-17, 2024. The Pangalay Workshop, led by its founder and 2015 Ramon Magsaysay Awardee, Ligaya Fernando Amilbangsa, along with Ms. Nannette Matilac and Mr. Jimo Angeles, marked a significant milestone for IPAG. As the guild reestablishes its roots, revisiting Pangalay has been their way of finding grounding again. This workshop is even more significant as it is the inaugural activity of the newly established Academy of the Arts in MSU-IIT (AAMI). Moreover, this recent workshop signifies a new phase for IPAG, embracing a version of Pangalay that aligns more closely with Ligaya's vision since founding the guild.

𝗖𝗖𝗦-𝗹𝗲𝗱 𝗠𝘆.𝗜𝗖𝗧 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸𝘀𝗵𝗼𝗽: 𝗔 𝗖𝗮𝘁𝗮𝗹𝘆𝘀𝘁 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗗𝗶𝗴𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗘𝗺𝗽𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁

The My.ICT Training and Workshop 2024, hosted by the College of Computer Studies (CCS) along with The Bridge Student Center concluded with a burst of energy, excitement, and a sense of achievement, highlighting the power of collaboration and innovation in the field of information and communication technology (ICT). Held over three engaging Saturdays in October, it brought together students, faculty, and volunteers from CCS and across the campus to dive into hands-on learning, creative activities, and an exploration of the latest digital tools.

The workshop, themed "Empowering the Youth through Education and Technology," focused on this idea throughout the event’s activities. The program kicked off on October 5 with a session led by Glyn Byran I. Ebardo, who introduced participants to Google Workspace. Ebardo’s demonstration of Google Docs and other productivity tools offered students practical skills for streamlining workflows. The session was supported by volunteers from The Motherboard, Hannah Hontiveros, and Cathlyn A. Ramo.

The second workshop on October 12 was led by Xander Cage Paman, focusing on Canva, a popular online design platform. Participants were given the opportunity to practice creating posters, presentations, and social media graphics, fostering their creativity while honing their design skills. Volunteers Justine Boncales, Art Sumondong, and Franz Aclao were on hand to guide participants through the process.

On October 19, Glyn Bryan I. Ebardo returned to wrap up the program and discuss the WordPress Blog Dashboard. He walked participants through the fundamentals of setting up and managing a blog using WordPress. Student volunteers Jhen Mercado, Johanna T. Sarangani, Love Mari T. Jadman, and Xander Cage Paman helped make the session both engaging and interactive, offering hands-on assistance to participants.

The success of My.ICT 2024 was the result of a strong collaborative effort between various groups at MSU-IIT. The College of Computer Studies (CCS) played a pivotal role in organizing the event, coordinating the activities, and providing participants with valuable learning experiences. The Bridge Student Center and The Motherboard team also contributed significantly, providing speakers and volunteers who facilitated the workshops and ensured participants were well supported.

Marjorie Tabigue, the MY.ICT Project Leader, and Elsyl Demontaño from The Bridge Student Center, worked together to successfully organize the event. Their leadership and organizational skills were instrumental in bringing together the diverse elements of the event. Tabigue's efforts in curating a program that catered to both beginners and advanced learners in the ICT field were instrumental in making My.ICT 2024 a success.

The event not only demonstrated the importance of collaboration between faculty, students, and external organizations but also underscored the role of student-led initiatives in promoting a supportive and engaging learning environment.

Report by Justine Boncales
Proofread by Althea Amsali and Kevin Villareal
Photos by Hannah Hontiveros, Art Kent Sumondong, Franz Xavier Aclao, and Johanna Sarangani

𝗠𝗦𝗨-𝗜𝗜𝗧 𝗖𝗖𝗦 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗦𝗵𝗼𝘄𝗰𝗮𝘀𝗲 𝗜𝗻𝗻𝗼𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗮𝘁 𝗔𝗻𝗻𝘂𝗮𝗹 𝗜𝗻-𝗛𝗼𝘂𝘀𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟰

The College of Computer Studies (CCS) at Mindanao State University – Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT) made a significant impact at the 22nd Annual In-House Review (AIHR) of Research and Development (R&D) on October 11, 2024, held at the MSU-IIT Gymnasium. Organized by the Office of the Vice-Chancellor for Research and Enterprise (OVCRE) through the Office of Research Management, in light of the institute’s recent ranking in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings, the event aimed to enhance the university’s research culture and standing.

Dr. Mary Sylvette T. Gunigundo, Director of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), delivered the keynote address, focusing on "Building a Culture of Research." Prof. Pamela Resurreccion, Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, followed with an inspirational message, emphasizing the importance of reviewing research outputs and leveraging discoveries for the greater good.

Prof. Ephrime Metillo, Vice Chancellor for Research and Enterprise, underscored the significance of MSU-IIT's inclusion in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings, highlighting the institution's commitment to academic excellence. Subsequently, Dr. Elmer Jose P. Dadios, a professor and University Fellow from De La Salle University, shared insights on the challenges and opportunities of translating research from the laboratory to the market.

The afternoon session showcased a range of oral and poster presentations from various disciplines, held at the PRISM building where it highlighted the presentations of the CCS faculty members' presenters.

𝗣𝗿𝗲𝗱𝗶𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗜𝗻𝗰𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗧𝘂𝗯𝗲𝗿𝗰𝘂𝗹𝗼𝘀𝗶𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗭𝗮𝗺𝗯𝗼𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗮 𝗦𝗶𝗯𝘂𝗴𝗮𝘆 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗨𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗠𝗮𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗔𝗹𝗴𝗼𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗵𝗺𝘀

Asst. Prof. Paul B. Bokingkito Jr., a faculty member from the College of Computer Studies (CCS), led a team along with Asst. Prof. Redeemtor R. Sacayan, a member from the College of Science and Mathematics (CSM), and Kent Lawrence Pabes, a research assistant, to develop a machine learning model to predict the incidence of tuberculosis in Zamboanga Sibugay Province.

𝗔𝘀𝘀𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗗𝗮𝘁𝗮 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗴𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗦𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝗜𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗮𝗻 𝗖𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗕𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗮𝘆 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵 𝗖𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀

Another CCS research team, led by Project Leader Asst. Prof. Jerina Jean Ecleo, Prof. Adrian P. Galido, and Eloida Grace Sanchez, a research assistant, conducted a study evaluating the data strategy of selected barangay health centers in Iligan City.

𝗗𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗻 𝗘𝗻𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲𝗱 𝗠𝗦𝗨-𝗜𝗜𝗧 𝗢𝗻𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗘𝗻𝘃𝗶𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 (𝗠𝗢𝗟𝗘)

Project Leader Asst. Prof. Maria Camilla Ann R. Llamas and her team from CCS, including Prof. Cenie M. Vilela-Malabanan, Assoc. Prof. Dante D. Dinawanao, Yra Dionaldo, a research assistant, and Ralph Jayson Nicart, a software developer, presented their research on developing an enhanced MSU-IIT Online Learning Environment (MOLE).

The participation of CCS faculty members in the AIHR highlights the college's dedication to research excellence and its contribution to the overall research culture at MSU-IIT. Their projects exemplify the innovative spirit and commitment to societal impact that define the CCS faculty. As they continue to contribute valuable insights and solutions through their research, the faculty members of the College of Computer Studies are poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of technology and education in their communities and beyond.

Report by Jhen Krizziah Mercado
Proofread by Althea Amsali

𝗖𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗯𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱 𝗠𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵 𝗗𝗮𝘆 𝗧𝗵𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵 𝗔𝗿𝘁 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗔𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀

Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT) commemorated World Mental Health Day on October 10, 2024, by suspending academic activities to allow students to fully participate in a series of events aimed at promoting mental health awareness.

The day’s event began with a dance-based exercise led by the Office of the Guidance Council (OGC) at the university gymnasium to promote physical wellness as a foundation for mental health. Following this, a discussion titled "Matters of the Heart and Mind" took place in the PRISM Conference Hall to address important mental health issues and emotional well-being.

Students also took part in sports activities organized by the Kataas-taasang Sanggunian ng mga Mag-aaral (KASAMA), featuring badminton, basketball, and volleyball for both men and women.

The event featured an art workshop at the College of Arts and Social Sciences and booths displaying artwork in front of the College of Business Administration. It also included the "Mural of Hope" event at the mini-theater, emphasizing the community's commitment to mental health awareness.

Additionally, the College of Computer Studies organized activities like “To You,” mind games, "Letter from a Stranger," the KUMUSTA board, "Sayo Yarn," and "Ice Cream Bakanaman," fostering connections and support among students.

World Mental Health Day, first observed in 1992, aims to raise awareness about mental health issues and support those who are struggling mentally. MSU-IIT's commitment to mental health is evident in its efforts to create a supportive and inclusive environment for its students, helping them achieve their academic and personal goals.

Report by Jhen Krizziah Mercado and Fahmi Petiilan
Photos by Franz Xavier Aclao, Art Kent Sumondong, Sweet Franzen Aclao, Johanna Sarangani, Trisha Jacuba, Hannah Hontiveros

𝗘𝗺𝗽𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗜𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗴𝗲𝗻𝗼𝘂𝘀 𝗩𝗼𝗶𝗰𝗲𝘀: 𝗠𝗜𝗣𝗦𝗔 𝗟𝗮𝘂𝗻𝗰𝗵𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝘁 𝗠𝗦𝗨-𝗜𝗜𝗧

MINI THEATER — The MSU-IIT Indigenous People Student Advocate (MIPSA) proudly launched its organization with a ceremony today, October 9, 2024, following their recognition as one of the official student-led organizations in the academe, with a theme “Mga Katutubo at Katutubong Dunong: Pahalagahan, Pangalagaan, at Parangalan,” hosted by Mr. Elmar Albios.

The ceremony began with an opening prayer and a welcoming remark from Dr. Rohane M. Derogongan, Vice Chancellor for Student Services. Dr. Derongan emphasized the significance of MIPSA's formation in supporting indigenous students at MSU-IIT. Prof. Jed Otano, MIPSA's advisor, provided an overview of the organization's history and journey to becoming the 29th member of the Council of Organizations.

MIPSA President Jhon Dave Manos outlined the organization's mission, vision, logo, and future plans. A Solidarity Signage presentation followed, symbolizing the unity between MIPSA and other MSU-IIT organizations. Rich Jasper Adonis, Head of the External Committee, delivered closing remarks, reflecting on MIPSA's evolution into an official organization.

The second part of the event featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony and an exhibition celebrating the literature of the Lumad people. KASAMA President Arjie Castillon opened the exhibition, which included speeches from notable guests. Cyril Mae Q. Salera from Espasyo Creative Hub spoke about Indigenous craftsmanship and design, while Micah Marie Indab, Mayor of the Lilacs Society, shared stories and literature from various tribes. The segment concluded with a traditional prayer led by Bae Wilma W. Bado, IPMR.

The event concluded with a ceremonial ribbon cutting by representatives of MIPSA, KASAMA, and Lilacs, followed by an exhibition tour. MIPSA's launch showcases its commitment to honoring the rich heritage and culture of Indigenous people. The organization continues its mission to advocate for the rights and heritage of Indigenous peoples, ensuring that their voices are heard and valued.

Report by Jhen Krizziah Mercado
Proofread by Althea Grace Amsali, Mark Anthony Ramos
Photos by Art Kent Sumondong and Franz Xavier Aclao

𝗔𝗗𝗩𝗜𝗦𝗢𝗥𝗬 | In celebration of World Mental Health Day, classes at MSU-IIT will be suspended on Thursday, October 10, 2024, to allow students and faculty to fully participate in the campus-wide activities and events organized for the occasion.
Please note that colleges are expected to monitor student attendance.

𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗣𝗜𝗩𝗢𝗧'𝘀 𝗭𝗲𝘂𝘀𝗫 𝗘𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗴𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝘀 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗺𝗽𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗮𝘁 𝗣𝗵𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗽𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘁𝘂𝗽 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗴𝗲 𝟵 - 𝗥𝗲𝗴𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝟭𝟬

In a stunning display of innovation and collaboration, ZeusX, pitched by Team PIVOT, clinched the top spot at the Philippine Startup Challenge 9 (PSC9) Regional Pitching Competition - Region 10. The team, composed of students from the College of Computer Studies (CCS) and the College of Engineering (COE), developed ZeusX.

The competition, hosted at MSU-IIT, also saw participation from another CCS group, Team VIABONE, which pitched its startup project of the same name. While both teams represented the innovative spirit of the college, it was Team PIVOT that emerged victorious, thanks to their groundbreaking project, ZeusX.

The team faced various challenges throughout the competition. In an exclusive interview with Mary Antonette Garcia, one of the key members of Team PIVOT, one of the most difficult aspects was defining their problem and ensuring that their solution addressed it effectively. “In a startup, you must love the problem, not the solution. It’s crucial that the solution truly solves the issue at hand,” she said.

Despite these challenges, ZeusX impressed the judges with its practical applications and the team’s ability to collaborate across disciplines. “It was a team effort,” said Garcia.

Team PIVOT's success is not just a win for the students but also a testament to the innovative culture being nurtured at MSU-IIT’s College of Computer Studies. The team's mentor, Dr. Orven E. Llantos, guided them throughout the development of ZeusX, helping refine their ideas and strategies.

Reflecting on the experience, Garcia offered advice to aspiring student entrepreneurs: “Dream big, pitch your idea, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. The first time we pitched ZeusX, we didn’t win, but we learned from that experience. Keep going, and eventually, you’ll realize your dream.”

Report by Rimar Boter
Proofread by Junie Jebreel Botawan

𝗡𝗢 𝗖𝗟𝗔𝗦𝗦𝗘𝗦 | Under Special Order No. 01751-IIT, Series of 2024, amending Special Order No. 01413-IIT, Series of 2024, the General Assembly of the Faculty Union has been rescheduled to October 9, 2024, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. As a result, all classes in all colleges will be suspended on this date. Please be guided accordingly.

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗧𝗵𝗿𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗼𝗳 𝗮 𝗗𝗼𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗟𝗶𝗳𝗲

He glanced over the algorithms—visibly shaken—and suddenly his eyebrows furrowed into a unibrow. Is he disgusted? Why is his nose flaring? One thing was certain, he definitely was bothered. I asked what was wrong. "Sluggish," he said.

His grandmother was a principal and had uncles who were teachers, teaching ran through his blood. Or so we thought, but Orven had other plans for himself. The wind blew in another direction—Orven wanted to be a programmer.

He had always been passionate about computer science and consistently tried to speed up these processes. He took his Bachelor of Computer Science at MSU-IIT and graduated in 2000. He was fast approaching his dreams of becoming a programmer, but again, the wind changed direction. He wound up getting his first job as a teacher in Pagadian City and resided there for six years. He challenged himself to move out of the academe to pursue his dreams of being a programmer, as becoming a teacher was not really his first priority. He found a chance when he became a software developer in another school for his Master's Degree in the same institution and graduated in 2007. Things were going well, but somehow, he felt stagnant—each day felt the same. He missed it, something he never really thought of pursuing. I guess it really did run in his blood, he continued teaching.

Today, Mr. Orven E. Llantos is a Computer Science professor at the College of Computer Studies. His six years of prior teaching experience served as good preparation for his time at MSU-IIT, and he is grateful for the opportunities it provided. After a while, he attended Ateneo de Manila to pursue his Doctoral Degree and graduated in 2021.

He continues to pursue greater heights, he was recently accredited as an S&T expert by the DOST—a love letter for the passionate man for all the hard work he had put in. "Technology shall serve the purpose of making human lives better." His my.eskwela project played a major role in this success. Amidst the pandemic and during his stay as chairman of the Computer Science Department, a rampant increase in cases of dishonesty of students in relaying their academic status and details to their parents was recorded. Parents were led to believe that their kids needed computers for their studies, which would be a valid reason if they were not using it to fulfill things that kept them from studying. This led to confusion when their children began failing and not graduating as expected.

In response to this, he developed my.eskwela, a learning management system where parents could track the academic status of their children during the outbreak of COVID-19 when face-to-face classes were not possible. Despite fully knowing that other student learning management systems existed at that time, he took it as a challenge to innovate on these existing technologies to improve the state of these systems. An academic innovation that still helps learners and parents today. As we outgrew the pandemic and face-to-face classes are back on track, efforts have been made to integrate this learning management system into DepEd's educational system. This does not mark the end. "Technology is always evolving, it's difficult to say we've reached the end," he said. Encouraging young aspirants to constantly think as there are more things to contribute to making technology better. "The more I learn, the more I learn that there is more to learn," he continued, emphasizing the importance of studying new ways to innovate on current technologies.

With his newfound love for teaching, he continued to share knowledge to influence the path of his students in their future careers. "A balance of being goal-oriented and understanding the needs and capabilities of the students," he said when asked about the values that define a great teacher. He highlighted the importance of keeping a standard of what you want to achieve but also the importance of compromising this standard for the benefit of your students. Part of this compromise is balancing conflicting tasks, whose quality should enhance the learning of the students.

When asked about how he keeps his students engaged while delivering comprehensive discussions, he admitted that it is really quite a challenge. His compromise? Spend less time talking. "There is a shift in education where the challenge is to not be in the center of the stage doing all the lectures, you need to be proactive," he said. As teachers, they are there to guide the students in their learning; part of this is trusting that they can do these things on their own. "If you are just listening to the lecture, it might not stick in your mind, for it to stay you need to apply the learnings," he continued, stressing the importance of giving hands-on tasks and not solely relying on long lectures. “Examining feedback is important to align it with your teaching style," he said, because as effective as his teaching style was it has not always been this way, listening to critiques and comments helped him improve and formulate his strategies, it was a technique built with trial-and-error, brick by brick he improved his way of teaching which made him a better mentor for his students.

"Seeing them achieve their dreams in programming, in tech companies, spearheading start-ups, reassures me that I have done a good job," he said. Seeing his students live a good life and applying the lessons they have learned, through his teachings, to sail through it was where he felt most rewarded. He expressed deep appreciation for students who returned to share meals and reminisce, acknowledging the impact he had on their careers. Recognizing the challenges of maintaining connections over time, he encouraged students to reach out to their mentors sooner rather than later.

He feels appreciated enough, our act and gestures of courtesy are their biggest pat on the back. He said that we should maintain these values - being respectful, courteous, and appreciative. "It is a great day for all the teachers, reminding them of how they have done so far" when asked about what Teacher's Day is for him and his colleagues. This special day reminds them that they are making someone's life better and is a reminder to constantly challenge themselves to become better for the next generation of dreamers.

He glanced over his student's algorithms—visibly shaken—he suddenly had unibrows. Is he disgusted? Why is his nose flaring? One thing is for sure though, he definitely was bothered. I asked what was wrong, "You are doing great!" he said.

Written by Daverie Gomonit
Proofread by Althea Grace Amsali and Junie Jebreel Botawan
Artwork by Daverie Gomonit
Layout by Rimar Boter

𝗛𝗮𝗽𝗽𝘆 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱 𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗿𝘀' 𝗗𝗮𝘆 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟰!

This year, we celebrate under the theme "Valuing Teacher Voices: Towards a New Social Contract for Education." Today, we honor teachers' essential role in shaping the future of education and society. We recognize their invaluable contributions by amplifying their voices and strive to create a more inclusive, equitable educational system.

Thank you, teachers, for your dedication and for being the driving force behind transformative change in the world of learning!

Artwork by Kate Mikaela Dagohoy

𝗖𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗯𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝟮𝟮 𝘆𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗧𝗲𝗰𝗵 𝗕𝗿𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲!

The MSU-IIT's College of Computer Studies is celebrating over two decades of academic excellence, groundbreaking research, and shaping future innovators in the digital world! CYPRO, the official mascot of The Motherboard, is celebrating with us, bringing extra energy to the fun and tech-filled future we’re building together.

Artwork by Noelle Khrislyn Rubenecia
Layout by Kate Mikaela Dagohoy

𝗖𝗖𝗦 𝗙𝗮𝗰𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘆 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗔𝗹𝘂𝗺𝗻𝗶 𝗧𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗖𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗮𝘁 𝗡𝗶𝗗𝗦 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟰: 𝗔 𝗦𝗵𝗼𝘄𝗰𝗮𝘀𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗖𝘂𝘁𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴-𝗘𝗱𝗴𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵

CCS faculty and alumni attended the 4th International Conference on Novel and Intelligent Digital Systems (NiDS 2024) in Athens, Greece, where authors were invited to submit their studies on Al and digital systems.

The NiDS 2024 Proceedings will be published in Springer's Lecture Notes in Networks and Systems (LNNS) book series, a Scopus-indexed publication.

During the conference, two research studies were presented: 'Modeling Dengue Cases and Online Search Behavior for Predictions,' presented by Jerina Jean Ecleo, with Adrian Galido as co-author, and 'Development of an Image-Based Reverse Vending Machine Using Raspberry Pi,’ presented by Apple Rose Alce, co-authored by Adrian Galido, with additional contributions from faculty and alumni.

In an interview, Jerina Jean Ecleo emphasized the influence of advancements in neural networks, augmented intelligence, and smart solutions in enhancing automation, personalization, and decision-making. These innovations are making digital systems increasingly adaptive and efficient when handling large datasets and real-time analytics.

She also recognized the standout presentations during the conference, which included discussions on immersive technologies, human-centered Al, and IoT security. She explained that as IoT integrates more into daily life, the focus on privacy and cybersecurity, including real-time monitoring and Al-driven solutions, has become especially noteworthy.

Additionally, she stressed the collaborations and connections made during the conference. “The conference served as a platform for networking with international researchers, fostering collaborations in fields such as adaptive systems, data mining, and augmented intelligence. Beyond the presentations, we were fortunate to meet researchers from UP, who came from the Philippines to present. We also formed ties with the event organizers and program chairs,” Ecleo remarked.

The International Conference NiDS 2024 is dedicated to the application and integration of intelligent techniques in software and systems. It places special emphasis on novel methods applied to digital transformation, as well as on interdisciplinary research that enables, supports, and promotes Al techniques in software development.

Report by Cathlyn Ramo
Proofread by Althea Grace Amsali and Junie Jebreel Botawan

𝗖𝗖𝗦 𝗦𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗺𝗽𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗜𝗻𝗻𝗼𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗮𝘁 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟰 𝗦𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗗𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗽𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗗𝗮𝘆

The College of Computer Studies (CCS) achieved a remarkable feat on September 25, as its students secured the top prize at the 2024 Sustainable Development Day Awarding Ceremony held in the Office of the Chancellor Boardroom.

The ceremony, themed "Empowering Futures and Abating for a Sustainable World through Awareness and Action," challenged participants to devise innovative solutions that addressed one or more of the United Nations' 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). CCS's winning proposal demonstrated exceptional creativity and potential to contribute to a more sustainable future.

A total of 20 teams participated in the event, with three representing CCS: Vertanom, led by Asst. Prof. Stefany Mae V. Caparida, MSCA, featuring members Tristan E. Listanco, Phoebien D. Cañete, and Shanice Reih H. Tanque, P=Vots, directed by Dr. Orven E. Llantos, including members Mary Antonette Garcia, Gio Kiefer Sanchez, and Tristan Jadman, and Hanap Sakay, also coached by Asst. Prof. Caparida, with members Karl Vincent Remo, Amer Patrick L. Lauma, and Andrew Earl L. Andres.

Vertanom, the triumphant champion, shared their journey to victory in an exclusive interview. “It all started during our CCC 102 requirement last semester. We developed an application aimed at OOP students that focuses on sustainability and links directly to the SDGs. After many meetings and product revisions, we finalized our design in less than a week, submitting our proposal just before the deadline,” Listanco shared.

The team expressed their elation at being crowned champions, especially considering it was their first competition. “We didn’t expect to win. It was surreal to receive the championship award,” Listanco shared. Despite their excitement, the team faced challenges during the competition. A laptop malfunction during their presentation forced them to rely on equipment provided by the organizers, causing delays in their setup. Additionally, they had to condense their ideas into a concise two-page paper.

Looking ahead, the team aims to further refine their project. As Listanco stated, "If we have the opportunity to implement our idea, we want to ensure it meets public expectations." Their experience was underscored by motivational quotes. Cañete emphasized the importance of believing in one's ideas, while Listanco highlighted that opportunities are valuable assets that can be learned from through refinement. Tanque added a spiritual perspective, stating that prayer is a powerful tool.

CCS students continue to empower sustainable solutions in agriculture, shaping a future characterized by growth and resilience. Through the development of innovative technologies and practices, they addressed critical challenges within the agricultural sector, enhancing productivity while minimizing environmental impact. The event concluded with an award ceremony that celebrated the students' innovative spirit and promoted sustainable solutions to pressing global challenges through technology.

Report by Jhen Krizziah Mercado and Mary Antonette Garcia
Proofread by Althea Grace Amsali