Filipino students delivered a standout performance at the Fibonacci International Robot Olympiad World Championship in Rome, securing four major titles in a field that brought together competitors from 28 nations across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. The international meet, regarded as one of Italy’s key student robotics events, featured challenges ranging from autonomous navigation to drone-based tasks.
At the center of the Philippine campaign were Ryne Dannielle Santos, Francine Opiana, Joesher Caspillan, AJ Ramos, and Raejann Zyle Figuerres, who represented the country in several technical categories. Their entries earned top positions in the Autonomous Drone, Drone Rally, Mini Sumobot, and Mega Sumobot challenges, along with recognition in Line Tracing from the event jury.
The competition gathered participants from Italy, Türkiye, Azerbaijan, Spain, Switzerland, Armenia, Norway, Kazakhstan, Portugal, India, Georgia, Lithuania, Bangladesh, Montenegro, Greece, the UAE, the United States, Uzbekistan, Saudi Arabia, Denmark, Finland, Estonia, Ukraine, North Macedonia, Albania, Serbia, and the Philippines. These teams were among those taking part in a championship that annually showcases student-built robots and drone systems.
Behind the Philippine delegation’s preparation were mentors and technical experts from Erovoutika, led by Founder Engr. Bhai Nhuraisha I. Deplomo. Engineer Leonardo De Galicia and the wider Erovoutika Electronics Robotics Automation team worked with Coach Hazel Elaine Armas of Manaoag National High School to guide the students through months of training ahead of the Rome finals.
Support for the delegation also came from school and regional officials, including Head Teacher Manuel Jaime Vinuya, Principal Dr. Daisy S. Mayola, SDS Vivian Luz S. Pagatpatan, and Regional Supervisor Dinah Bonao. Assistance from the Local Government of Pangasinan, the DOST–Technology Application and Promotion Institute, and Murata Philippines – Philippine Manufacturing Co. of Murata, Inc. helped ensure the team’s participation in the global meet.
The students’ medal haul included first place in Autonomous Drone, second place in Drone Rally, second place in Mini Sumobot, third place in Mega Sumobot, and a Jury Award for Line Tracing.
