BACOLOD City – Two high school students from Ramon Torres National High School (RTNHS) in Bago City, Negros Occidental, have brought home the gold medal in the International Robotics Competition held during the 9th World Innovation Technology Challenge at Chonnam National University’s Yeosu Campus in South Korea.
The team, consisting of Grade 10 students Erichjoy Grande and Marciela Valdez, competed in the event on November 2 and 3, showcasing their robotics skills on the global stage and representing the Philippines with distinction.
Bago City’s Mayor Nicholas Yulo expressed pride in the students’ accomplishment, emphasizing the significance of their victory.
“This achievement is something all of us in Bago City — and even in the entire Philippines — can be proud of,” said Yulo. “We may not be widely known for robotics and technology, but these students have shown that we can compete at a world-class level.”
Yulo also announced that the city government will provide incentives to the students in recognition of the pride and honor they have brought to Bago City and the Philippines. However, details of the incentive package are yet to be disclosed.
Speaking in a mix of Hiligaynon and English, Mayor Yulo underscored the potential of young Filipinos, stating, “At such a young age, our youth have immense potential. They just need the right exposure and opportunities. Imagine — our students defeated South Korean competitors in a field they’re well-known for.”
The announcement coincided with Bago City’s celebration of Al Cinco de Noviembre, a historical event commemorating the Negrense revolt against Spanish colonizers on November 5, 1898. This year’s theme was “126 Years of Heroism and Nationalism: Advancing the Legacy of Ingenuity and Progress.”
The festivities began with a thanksgiving mass at St. John the Baptist Church, followed by a wreath-laying ceremony at the General Juan Araneta Monument.
The Civic Military Parade through the city streets and the 26th Sigabong sang mga Kanyon — a parade of cannons culminating at Bantayan Park — were highlights of the celebration. Additionally, the Bago City Invitational Fancy Drill Competition drew an enthusiastic crowd.
The essence of Al Cinco de Noviembre commemorates the ingenuity and courage of General Juan Araneta and his Bagonhon forces, who used nipa fronds as makeshift rifles and bamboo mats as cannons, tricking Spanish forces into surrendering without a single casualty.
Yulo urged residents to carry forward the spirit of innovation and bravery embodied in this historic event, reminding younger generations to learn from the past and apply its lessons to today’s challenges./PN
