Young Innovators Showcase AI-Powered Robotics Solutions at AI In Motion 2026 Finale

ILOILO CITY — The region’s brightest young innovators showcased their cutting-edge artificial intelligence and robotics projects as the AI In Motion: Robotics Workshop and Competition concluded its three-day intensive program from July 29 to 31, 2026, highlighting the growing potential of Filipino students in developing technology-driven solutions for real-world challenges.
Organized as a prelude to the 2026 AI Fest, the workshop brought together university teams from across Western Visayas for hands-on training in robotics, artificial intelligence, computer vision, automation, and robotic system integration.
Throughout the three-day event, participants were mentored by industry experts Engr. William S. Acevedo Jr. and Mr. Allan Paul R. Gutierrez of Red Gutz Trading, who guided the students in transforming innovative concepts into fully functional AI-powered prototypes.
The final day featured project presentations and live demonstrations from five competing teams, each addressing pressing challenges in agriculture, disaster response, manufacturing, and public service.
Among the finalists were Hard Engineering Neighbor of West Visayas State University with MangoMind, Shift+Solve of Iloilo Science and Technology University with PUGITA: Intelligent Robotic Seafood Grading System, Aivox of the University of San Agustin with a PCB Inspection System, LAVLY.ai of the University of San Agustin with SAGIP, and HAI-5 of West Visayas State University with RESQ PH.
Organizers praised the teams for their technical excellence, creativity, and collaborative spirit, noting that the competition demonstrated how artificial intelligence and robotics can provide practical solutions to societal challenges while contributing to regional and national development.
Beyond the contest itself, AI In Motion served as a platform for learning, collaboration, and innovation by connecting students with industry professionals and technology advocates. The workshop also strengthened participants’ technical competencies while fostering critical thinking, teamwork, and an innovation-driven mindset among future Filipino engineers and developers.
The competition serves as a lead-up to the 2026 AI Fest, which will be held from August 3 to 5, 2026, at the Iloilo Convention Center (ICON) in Mandurriao, Iloilo City, where the finalists will once again showcase their innovations and compete for the championship.
Organizers congratulated all participating teams, emphasizing that reaching the finals is already a significant achievement and a testament to their commitment to advancing artificial intelligence and robotics in the Philippines.
The event underscores the growing role of AI and robotics in shaping the country’s future by empowering young innovators to create meaningful technologies that address real-world problems and improve the lives of communities.