Forem: Kakacomputer

The Rise of the Filipino Indie Developer

quibski — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 04:15:40 +0000

Solo builders behind Josie AI, Tarsi, and Keeby reach #1 rankings across Apple and Google platforms

MANILA, Philippines - A new wave of Filipino indie developers is gaining international attention after several locally built applications climbed to #1 rankings across Apple App Store, Google Play, and Mac App Store charts, signaling a shift in the country’s role in the global tech ecosystem.

Among the most notable are Josie AI, developed by France and Sze Pastrana; Tarsi, created by solo developer Bryl Lim; and Keeby, a macOS app by student developer Adrian Abelarde. Each app, built by small or solo teams, has achieved top rankings in their respective categories within days or weeks of launch.

josieai.com

AI-Powered Education App Gains Traction

Josie AI, launched in October 2025, is an education platform designed to train aspiring virtual assistants through a structured 20-day program supported by an AI chatbot.

The app has recorded tens of thousands of downloads across Android and iOS, with sustained daily user growth. It reached Top 5 in the Education category in the Philippines, reflecting strong demand for upskilling tools amid the country’s expanding digital workforce.

Our mission is to help people prepare for the future of work

The founders, operating without external funding, positioned the app within the growing market for remote work and AI-assisted freelancing—an area increasingly supported by government initiatives such as digital workforce training programs.

"AI tools are improving quickly and changing how many jobs are done. Our mission is to help people prepare for the future of work by learning how to use these tools so they can adapt and stay relevant," Pastrana explained.

tarsi.pocketdevs.ph

Solo Developer Tops Finance Charts in Days

In March 2026, Tarsi, a personal finance and budgeting app developed by Bryl Lim, climbed to #1 Paid App and #1 Finance App in the Philippines within 48 hours of release.

The app, priced at ₱299, generated an estimated ₱500,000 in revenue within its first two weeks, based on early user adoption and ranking performance.

At the end of the day, Tarsi didn’t try to do everything. It just did the important things well, and people felt that.

Tarsi differentiates itself through an AI-assisted interface that allows users to log expenses via natural language input, while maintaining an offline-first architecture. The app was developed independently and launched without traditional marketing campaigns, relying primarily on the developer’s online network and community reach.

Bryl said "Tarsi started as a simple idea where I wanted a finance app that was fast, private, and actually easy to use. I built the first version solo over a weekend and just focused on solving my own frustrations with existing apps that required logins/registrations and unnecessary online features. The growth came from listening closely to users and shipping updates quickly based on real feedback. There’s no backend, no data collection, everything stays on the user’s device, and I think that trust, combined with simplicity, really resonated. At the end of the day, Tarsi didn’t try to do everything. It just did the important things well, and people felt that."

Keeby - Mechanical Keyboard Sounds for Mac

Satisfying mechanical keyboard sounds for your Mac. Spatial audio, reactive visualizer, customizable switch profiles.

keeby.vercel.app

Student-Built Mac App Reaches #1

In April 2026, Keeby, a macOS utility that simulates mechanical keyboard sounds, reached #1 Top Paid App on the Mac App Store in the Philippines shortly after launch.

Keeby was an idea I sat on for years, never sure if anyone else would care.

Developed by Adrian Abelarde, Keeby targets a niche segment of users seeking enhanced typing experiences. The app also gained visibility on global platforms such as Product Hunt, contributing to its early traction. With him is his girlfriend Kiana Gambol who helps as social media manager since day 1.

Despite its simplicity, the app’s rapid rise highlights the growing viability of niche software products in global marketplaces.

Adrian said "Keeby was an idea I sat on for years, never sure if anyone else would care. I finally built it just for myself because I love mech keyboard sounds but hate carrying one everywhere. Hitting #1 on the Mac App Store proved that even the smallest ideas resonate when you just ship it, and this is just the beginning."

Emerging Pattern: Lean Teams, Global Reach

Industry observers note several common factors behind these successes:

Lean development cycles, with apps built in days or weeks
Bootstrapped operations, with no external funding
Direct-to-consumer distribution via app stores
Organic marketing through social media and developer communities The trend reflects broader changes in software development, where accessible tools, including AI-assisted coding, are enabling individuals to build and launch products at unprecedented speed.

Implications for the Philippine Tech Ecosystem

The success of these apps underscores a broader shift in the Philippine tech landscape, from a workforce traditionally focused on outsourcing to one increasingly capable of producing globally competitive digital products.

While challenges remain, including limited access to capital and infrastructure, the rise of indie developers demonstrates the potential for Filipino talent to compete in international markets without large-scale backing.

Analysts suggest that continued growth in this segment could position the Philippines as a regional hub for independent software innovation, particularly in mobile and AI-driven applications.

For Kakacomputer, this marks a defining moment:
Filipino developers are no longer just building for clients: they are building products, audiences, and global recognition of their own.

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About the Author:

Raphael Quisumbing as a Co-Host of KaKaComputer, is a seasoned technology expert with 20+ years of experience in the industry. He has several hour long videos in Youtube as YoungCTO with over 37.1K Views, 2.6K Hours Watch Time and 1.3K Subscribers. He is recognized Cloud Enthusiast and leader (AWS Hero) with genuine enthusiasm for effectively mentoring a usergroup of over 18,000 members in the Philippines. He comes from a family of teachers and educators, serving in the academe as well as being an AWS Authorized Instructor.

The AI Arms Race: Why Mobile Brands Must Lead the Charge in Cybersecurity

quibski — Tue, 10 Feb 2026 15:01:29 +0000

A conversation with Chris Roeckl, Chief Product Officer at Appdome

February 5, 2025 - Taguig City, BGC - CyberSecPhil 2026 - In a recent conversation with Chris from Appdome, the reality became clear: mobile security has entered an AI-powered arms race, and most consumers are already outmatched.
The cybersecurity battlefield has quietly but decisively shifted. It’s no longer just about data centers, enterprise networks, or backend systems: it’s about what sits in our pockets.

Chris didn’t mince words when describing today’s threat landscape. In markets like the Philippines, mobile fraud has ballooned into a multi-billion-dollar problem, fueled by the rapid digitization of banking, payments, and communication. Regulations such as the Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act (AFASA) are beginning to strengthen consumer protection, but legislation alone cannot keep pace with adversaries who operate globally, automatically, and without downtime.

everyday users simply don’t stand a chance

As Chris put it, consumers rely on platforms, passwords, and habits that were never designed to withstand AI-driven attackers.

One of the more sobering insights from the discussion was where responsibility truly lies. While users often assume Apple, Google Android , or gadget ,aker will “handle security,” those platforms can only provide baseline protections across millions of applications. They cannot tailor defenses to every business logic, transaction flow, or user behavior. That burden, Chris emphasized, belongs to mobile brands themselves: banks, fintechs, telcos, and service providers whose apps directly handle money, identity, and trust.

Modern mobile attacks are rarely purely technical.

Instead, they blend psychology and technology in carefully orchestrated sequences. Chris described common scenarios involving vishing: voice phishing. It is where a victim is pressured during a phone call to open their banking app while malicious tools operate silently in the background. The attack succeeds not because of a single exploit, but because no one breaks the chain.

This is where intelligent, context-aware defenses become critical. By analyzing real-time telemetry, a mobile app can recognize suspicious combinations of behavior—such as an active phone call coinciding with a sensitive transaction. Rather than abruptly blocking access, which risks alienating legitimate users, apps can introduce subtle but powerful friction. A simple message reminding users that financial institutions will never call and request in-app actions can be enough to disrupt social engineering in progress. According to Chris, this kind of intervention often stops fraud before it escalates.

Beyond warnings, mobile brands now have access to a broader toolkit. In high-risk situations, apps can shift into read-only mode, allowing users to view balances without moving funds. They can apply rate limits that cap how much money can be transferred during suspicious activity. Even accessibility features: long exploited by attackers to overlay malicious interfaces. It can be managed more intelligently by allowing only trusted tools while blocking abuse. These measures don’t eliminate usability; they preserve it while buying critical time.

Perhaps the most unsettling part of the conversation centered on biometrics. Fingerprints and facial recognition have long been marketed as near-foolproof, but generative AI has dramatically changed that equation. Chris shared a proof-of-concept demonstration where Face ID was bypassed using a 3D model created from a single LinkedIn photo. The entire process took under half an hour and relied on inexpensive, readily available software. In an era of deepfakes and voice cloning, the idea that biometrics alone can secure high-value transactions is quickly becoming an illusion.

Faced with attackers who deploy AI agents around the clock, the defensive response must evolve just as aggressively. Chris was unequivocal:

Fighting AI requires AI

Human analysts, no matter how skilled, cannot manually process the volume and velocity of modern threats. AI-driven systems can analyze massive datasets, detect emerging attack patterns, and deploy protections in hours rather than weeks—an essential capability in a mobile ecosystem where app updates are constant and threats mutate in real time.

By the end of the discussion, one theme stood out above all others. The old “buyer beware” mindset no longer applies in mobile security. Consumers cannot reasonably defend themselves against AI-powered fraud, and they shouldn’t be expected to. Instead, accountability must shift upward. Mobile brands are now the first and most important line of defense. Users, in turn, are beginning to “vote with their feet,” abandoning apps that fail to protect them.

In the AI era, trust is no longer built solely on features or convenience. It is built on whether a brand is willing to acknowledge the arms race and actively fight on behalf of its users. As Chris made clear, the question is no longer if mobile apps will be targeted, but who is prepared to defend them when it happens.

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About the Author:

Raphael Quisumbing as a Co-Host of KaKaComputer, is a seasoned technology expert with 20+ years of experience in the industry. He has several hour long videos in Youtube as YoungCTO with over 37.1K Views, 2.6K Hours Watch Time and 1.3K Subscribers. He is recognized Cloud Enthusiast and leader (AWS Hero) with genuine enthusiasm for effectively mentoring a usergroup of over 18,000 members in the Philippines. He comes from a family of teachers and educators, serving in the academe as well as being an AWS Authorized Instructor.

Confidence in the Cloud: Women Building the Future at AWSUG BuildHers+ Summit

KaKaComputer — Fri, 11 Jul 2025 04:20:01 +0000

May 21-22, 2025 - Pasig - Innovating Solutions, Empowering Women In Tech

In celebration of Women’s Month, AWSUG BuildHers+ launched the AWSUG
BuildHers+ Summit: Architecting the Future with innovation at White Cloak
Technologies, Inc. on to elevate, empower, and connect women in
tech. It was a summit filled with inspiring energy that ignited change and action.

Day 1: Stories that Spark, Connections that Last

May 21, 2025 – The energy was electric at the first day as the AWSUG BuildHers+ Summit kicked off with a powerful theme: I ns pi r e & C onnect . It was a day full of bold stories and blazing ideas that created genuine connections. Group discussions unfolded, navigating through tech careers, breaking industry biases, and acknowledging what it truly means to thrive in this ever-evolving world of technology—not just as professionals, but as changemakers. What does it truly mean?

“ Your skill set gets you in the door , but your voice shapes the space.”

Moreover, Ms. Chelle Obligacion-Gray, Director of Business Development and Public Sector at Symph, challenged the “perfect roadmap” and showed us that growth comes from embracing change, taking risks, and redefining our own paths, revealing a truth that: “One’ s career path is never linear.”

Up next, an icebreaker turned colleagues to deep connections as attendees bonded over a game of charades revealing fun and competitive sides of everyone. Fireside chats, mentorship circles, and networking over dinner created a space where growth wasn’t just encouraged—it was contagious. The first day provided a safe space for the right conversations.

Day 2: She Builds, She Leads, She Innovates

May 22, 2025 – The excitement kept going on the second day of the summit with the theme: Build & Innovate, with sessions where inspiration met action. Joyce Agus from Computrade Technology Philippines, Inc. opened the day with a deep dive into cloud security, emphasizing the critical role of shared responsibility in tech, and reminding us that securing the future is not a solo mission—but a team effort.

Next, Dr. Jheanel Estrada thrilled us with the futuristic world of autonomous vehicles here today. From algorithms and AI to the real-world impact of this revolutionary tech, her talk revealed how women are LITERALLY driving innovation. Her talk left a powerful message: “With the right mindset , the road ahead is limitless. ”

Last but not the least, Ms. Trisha Pelagio, a dynamic Solutions Architect, led a captivating session on Generative AI in AWS. She unfolded the AWS Generative AI Stack, showcasing how it’s changing industries by simplifying complexity, amplifying creativity, and turning ideas into impact.

And as the day came to a close, attendees were buzzing with new skills, fresh perspectives, deeper connection, and the courage for building the future. From safeguarding the cloud to driving smart cars and exploring AI frontiers, Day 2 was proof that innovation thrives when women lead. Truly, empowered women build our future.

The AWSUG BuildHers+ Summit isn’t just about the tech—it’s about the urge to transform and take action for the future. It is a safe space to grow, learn, and lead.

It is about building a strong community working towards the same vision and
passion. This unforgettable experience wouldn’t have been possible without the support of sponsors, partners, and most importantly, the incredible community that showed up with open minds and big dreams, celebrating and empowering women in tech.

Sponsors
💎 Tutorials Dojo
💎 CloudSensei
💎 Fantech Philippines
💎 Kurdtbro Switches
💎 Giftology Ph
Partners
🌸 K8SUG Philippines
🌸 AWS User Group Philippines
Community Partners
🌸 AWS Cloud Club PUP
🌸 AWS Cloud Club - TIP Manila
🌸 AWS Cloud Clubs Philippines
🌸 AWS Learning Club - Legarda
🌸 AWS Cloud Club - Haribon
🌸 The Tesseract Organization
🌸 AWS Cloud Club - PCU Cavite
Venue Sponsor
🌸 White Cloak Technologies, Inc.

Empowered women don’t wait for the future—they architect it.

About the Author

With roots in journalism and a future in technology, Coleen Legaspi bridges two worlds—crafting narratives both in words and in code. She is a first-year Computer Science student with big dreams in this big industry. As a member of AWSUG BuildHers+ and a frequent volunteer at tech events, she contributes as a content team member using her voice and vision to shape narratives, document experiences, and foster meaningful connections. Her current interest lies in UI/UX designs, creating well-crafted interfaces that serve more than just function—they resonate emotions and connection. Driven by advocacy for women in STEM, Coleen is on a mission to empower everyone with her works and her words, seeking to inspire others to dream fearlessly in tech and beyond.

Building Leaders, Shaping Futures: Uniting AWS Community Leaders in 2025

KaKaComputer — Fri, 11 Jul 2025 04:17:17 +0000

June 6-8, 2025 - Taguig City - The AWS User Group Philippines held its very first Leadership Summit, and it was more than just a gathering. It was a celebration of our vision, leadership, and growing community. For three transformative days, the summit brought together community heroes, community builders, future leaders, and passionate individuals from all over the country and beyond to learn, lead, and connect. Through inspiring keynotes, hands-on activities, and genuine personal exchanges, the summit empowered attendees not only to grow as tech professionals but also to become leaders who will shape the future of the tech community with heart.

Connect, Network, and Share: The Kickoff of the Summit

June 6, 2025 - Taguig - The first day of the summit kicked off with anticipation and was nothing short of exhilarating. A shared interest in the kind of future they could build collectively united attendees spanning all across the Philippines and beyond. Bringing together leaders, tech practitioners, and even global industry experts will empower the upcoming generation of leaders. The sessions centered on leadership journeys, highlighting personal stories, challenges, and valuable insights that inspired both attendees and organizers alike.

A unique networking experience truly made the day memorable. A speed dating session was introduced later in the event to show the energy of connection. Attendees gathered and lined up face-to-face, given just a minute to network. It was fast-paced and exciting as it forced everyone to break out of their shells. In many ways, it felt like a brain teaser with new faces and questions every few seconds.

To wrap up the first day of the summit, the community took a walking tour of the famous Bonifacio Global City led by Ms. Darla David and Mr. Iñaki Flores. The casual city walk allowed attendees to learn more about the city culture and bond beyond the formal setting, bringing everyone closer as friends and collaborators.

Leadership Starts With You

June 7, 2025 - The following morning was packed with deeper insights and hands-on leadership development as it opened with Ms. Nayoung Miller Won and Ms. Maria Encinar, who introduced the AWS Leadership Principles, helping the community explore how these values apply in real-world situations. One included integrating these principles into the STAR method used in interviews, an essential skill for both job seekers and mentors. Their keynote served as a grounding moment, reminding us that leadership is not theoretical. It is practical. It’s lived.

Following this was a powerful talk from Col. Bañaria of the Philippine Air Force, who discussed the role of cybersecurity in national security. He emphasized the importance of trust, digital infrastructure, and public-private collaboration. Not only that, he also placed a huge importance on our roles being not only leaders but technological leaders who pave the way for the future generation of learners.

Mr. Jonathan De Luzuriaga then took the stage with a reality check: a grounded overview of the Philippine tech industry's current state, its challenges, and the pivotal role of cloud adoption in driving innovation and economic growth. He emphasizes how we can "be part of the solution, to be the leader who embraces change."

Throughout the day, Ms. Chelle Obligacion-Gray continued exploring the dynamics of leadership in tech. A keynote that dove deeper into leading communities through empathy and shared goals.

Learning Through Collaboration: Engaging Activities and Team Dynamics

The morning of the second day ended with the Tallest Tower Challenge, a team activity that tested creativity, collaboration, and adaptability. Each team raced to build the highest structure using limited materials. The twist? Midway through, the towers were swapped between teams, encouraging teams to think outside the box and adapt to new issues and obstacles that arise. It was a fun but powerful lesson in letting go of control and leading through uncertainty.

To further mold the leaders of the future, Mr. Raphael Quisumbing shared his remarks followed by insights on building resilient communities, adapting to change, and leadership principles.

Other activities included:
Human Bingo, a fun and interactive networking activity that occurred throughout the whole summit
A Game App Showcase, where creativity and tech met community storytelling

Each activity allowed everyone to enjoy lunch while establishing connections and celebrating interests beyond tech conversations.

Voices of Experience and Practical Guidance

After a well-deserved lunch and some networking, the afternoon sessions kicked inspiration and grounded insights for the attendees, with speakers discussing personal stories and practical frameworks.

Mr. Paul Sears opened the afternoon session with "the art of inspiring and empowering a collective to strive toward a shared vision," known as leadership. He drew a line between leadership and management while also revealing that both are still essential in any organization, to imply that true leadership is less about control and more about connection and influence.

He then walked attendees through the key traits that define effective leadership:
Visionary Vibes – Leaders see the bigger picture and move toward it with purpose.
Empathy & Next-Level EQ – A strong leader understands people and tries various perspectives, not just processes.
Communication That Connects – Transparency and tailored to its audience, to foster an open dialogue.
Adaptable & Resilient – Navigating uncertainty with calm and composure.
Empowerment & Real Trust – Building trust and giving people room to grow.
Always Be Curious (ABC) – Embrace the unknown. Staying hungry to learn, even as you lead others.
His talk left the room with one clear takeaway: leadership is about service, growth, and elevating others.

A heartfelt and relatable talk about Mr. Rem Lampa, widely known in the tech scene as Kuya Dev inspired the minds of many tech professionals. Coming from an early career in electrical engineering and facing a toxic work environment, Rem spoke candidly about the burnout, pressure, and disconnection he experienced in his early years.
His turning point came when he decided to attend a local tech event that introduced him to a supportive, passionate, and humble community. What followed was the realization that the tech community can be a place of healing, learning opportunities, and growth.

During his Q&A session, one of the most powerful moments came when someone asked how to deal with impostor syndrome. Rem’s response was clear and grounded:

"You don't have to know everything. The industry is different now—people are more open and supportive. Just start. Don’t overthink it. Learn, ask questions, and stay passionate."

Closing out the afternoon was Mr. Raphael “Jamby” Jambalos, who shared the story of how he started his cloud community, emphasizing that leadership does not require perfection or grandeur.
His advice to aspiring community builders was honest and practical:

"You don’t need a polished deck, a big venue, or a huge following to get started. All you need is the willingness to bring people together."

Mr. Jambalos highlighted that many great communities begin with just a handful of people sharing the same passion. Whether a simple meetup in a coffee shop or a discussion on a group chat, the impact begins once you take the first step.
For attendees hoping to start or scale their cloud journey and build their local AWS communities, his talk was a reminder that starting small is not a weakness, it’s a foundation.
Mr. Joben Rara then gave an overview of the Community Day planning guidelines, helping leaders understand how to scale events while maintaining impact and alignment with AWS standards.

Celebrating Leadership and Looking Ahead

The day concluded with an awarding ceremony, recognizing standout leaders who exemplified the spirit of community, innovation, and service.

Finally, Mr. Isaeus Guiang delivered closing remarks that resonated with every attendee. He reminded us to lead with heart, curiosity, and purpose, to return home not just with notes and photos, but with the confidence to create a lasting impact in our circles.

From the Inside: An Event to Movement

As attendees, The AWS UGPH Leadership Summit 2025 was not just an event. We became part of something greater, a living ecosystem of tech builders and changemakers. What resonated most was never the scale of the sessions or the prestige of each speaker. It was the sincerity. A reminder that tech leadership is not about titles nor expertise, but about connection, courage, and community.

As we return to our cities, schools, and workplaces, we bring with us the spark that was ignited at the summit, ready to lead, inspire, and build the future together.

About the Author/s:
Vince Joshua Gaurano is a Computer Science student at the Technological University of the Philippines – Manila. He is passionate about continuous learning, leadership, and applying technology to solve real-world problems. With a clear vision, he aims to become a leader who not only understands technology but uses it to make a meaningful impact.

Iñaki Manuel Flores is also a Computer Science student at the Technological University of the Philippines – Manila, aspiring to become a versatile developer. An active volunteer in the tech community driven by curiosity and a creative spirit, he enjoys building solutions that bridge technology and real-world problems.

Build with AI Manila 2025: Empowering Developers in the Agentic Era

KaKaComputer — Sun, 01 Jun 2025 16:57:11 +0000

May 31, 2025 - Makati - GDG Manila brought together developers, technologists, and AI enthusiasts for Build with AI Manila 2025, hosted at the Makati Palace Hotel. The half-day event zoomed in on practical applications of Generative AI, with a strong focus on Gemini 2.0 and Google’s latest Gen AI tools.

Shikaniah Castillo, Corporate Relations Associate, opened the event with an energizing message on the evolving landscape of Generative AI. She emphasized the collaborative nature of building this future—where human creativity meets machine intelligence.

Cleo Credo, CTO at Full Scale, delivered a compelling keynote on Generative AI and Gemini 2.0. She painted a clear vision of the "Agentic Era"—where AI doesn't just generate but acts, assists, and amplifies human potential through real-world, contextual responses.

Led by Weiyuan Liu, Senior Engineering Manager at Ascenda, the first codelab offered a hands-on intro to the Google Gen AI SDK. Attendees learned how to authenticate via API keys, make prompt calls to Gemini models, and understand the basics of prompt-response cycles—including multimodal inputs.

In the second session, Loys Talip, Customer Engineer at Google, demonstrated how to orchestrate Real-Time Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) using structured data, natural language, and vision inputs—all through the Multimodal Live API. The codelab focused on practical retail use cases where AI-powered insights can be dynamically generated.

The final codelab was facilitated by Toni-jan Keith Monserrat, Senior Principal Engineer at Kollab. Participants explored how Gemini 2.0 can combine multiple real-time tools—like maps and plot data—to generate responses grounded in the real world, bridging the gap between generative output and live contextual data.

Nhi Nguyen, Community Manager at Google, closed the event with a message of gratitude and encouragement. She acknowledged the volunteers and speakers and invited attendees to keep building and learning—together as a community.

From foundational tools to advanced real-time integrations, Build with AI Manila showed that Gen AI is here—and it’s actionable. Developers walked away not just inspired, but equipped to start building AI-powered solutions today.

BuildWithAI #GenAI #Gemini2 #GoogleAI #GDGManila

About the Author

John McLem Adan is the technical co-founder of Atin.ph and an incoming Software/Application/Cloud/Tech Support Senior Analyst at Accenture. He is a software engineer, technologist, and technopreneur, passionate about bridging technology, strategy, and people. With over 6 years of experience spanning web development, software testing, and customer support across local startups and SMEs, he is a firm believer in human-centered tech. A 2024 PH100 Under 30 awardee recognized by StellarPH, he actively contributes to the local tech and startup community through knowledge-sharing, community building, and cross-functional collaboration.

Not Just Building Code, But Sparking the Possibilities ✨ - GDG PUP's Build with AI 2025

Gladwin Ferdz Del Rosario — Mon, 26 May 2025 05:23:01 +0000

Whitecloak Technologies Inc., 20th Floor, Strata 2000, F. Ortigas Jr. Rd, Ortigas Center, Pasig, Kalakhang Maynila – May 25, 2025 – Who would have thought that developing an AI chatbot could be both engaging and achievable in just one day? Participants of GDG PUP’s Build with AI 2025 did exactly this using the Gemini 2.0 API, Streamlit, and ChromaDB!

Hosted by Emmanuel Oaing from GDG PUP’s Community Relations
Department, the event was structured into two main parts: the technical workshops and the project development phase. The day unfolded in the following sequence:

Ingress and Technical Setup
Opening Remarks by Gladwin Ferdz Del Rosario(me), CTO - GDG PUP
Icebreaker
Tech Workshop 1: Intro to Building AI Agents with Gemini 2.0 by Loyd Vendiola
Lunch Break
Tech Workshop 2: Introduction to Building AI Applications with Gemini, Streamlit, and ChromaDB by Danielle Bagaforo Meer
Project Development Phase
Project Presentation
Closing Remarks by John Paul Curada, Data and ML Lead - GDG PUP.

Opening Ceremonies:
The event took place at the inspiring office of Whitecloak Technologies Inc., the event’s venue sponsor. Build with AI 2025 began with the technical setup of tools and software, followed by opening remarks delivered by… me, Gladwin Ferdz Del Rosario, Chief Technology Officer of Google Developer Groups on Campus Polytechnic University of the Philippines. I highlighted the event’s goals: to innovate, to learn, and to connect. This event aimed not only to teach the technical skills needed to build an AI chatbot as the final project but also to spark new connections and possibilities with each other throughout the day.

Next came a lively icebreaker session where participants played human bingo, moving around to complete tasks with other attendees and breaking the ice for collaboration. The icebreaker became a networking session for participants to get to know one another, build connections, and set the tone for teamwork and creativity, a way to spark the aforementioned connections and possibilities throughout the day.

Technical Workshops:
The first technical workshop was led by Loyd Vendiola, Associate Cloud Engineer at Computrade Technology Philippines. He delivered the second workshop: Intro to Building AI agents with Gemini 2.0. Gemini is Google’s next-generation family of large multimodal models developed by Google DeepMind. Gemini 2.0 processes and understands text, images, audio, video, and code with improved performance, efficiency, and reasoning capabilities. Loyd demonstrated how to create AI agents using simple natural language prompts via the Gemini API or platforms like Vertex AI. Participants learned how developers can define tasks, guide models with instructions, and integrate additional tools or memory to build dynamic, goal-oriented agents. With minimal coding, these agents can interact with users, retrieve information, call APIs, or automate workflows — opening opportunities to embed intelligence into a wide range of applications.

Following this, Danielle Bagaforo Meer, AI x Blockchain Engineer at BayaniChain*, delivered the second workshop: *Introduction to Building AI Applications with Gemini, Streamlit, and ChromaDB**. This session prepared participants to connect all the tools and build a complete AI application — specifically, an AI chatbot. Gemini served as the core engine for natural language understanding and response generation. Streamlit provided an interactive and user-friendly web interface, while ChromaDB offered memory and context through vector embeddings by storing and retrieving relevant information. Danielle guided participants through building an intelligent chatbot capable of meaningful conversations, context retention, and responsive interaction within a web app.

Project Development
Then came the event’s most intense and exciting phase — the project development challenge. Around ten teams worked on creating customized chatbots using their chosen datasets and implementing various features. Participants were deeply engaged: debugging, coding new algorithms, drawing flowcharts to visualize chatbot structure, refining prompts, and integrating APIs. The atmosphere was a vibrant mix of focused energy, collaboration, and rapid problem-solving as teams pushed to bring their ideas to life.

During the project presentation segment, teams showcased their
unique AI chatbot solutions. Some of the participating teams included Iskoder, Chronos, Teresian, Team Watawat, Jet Set Go, and others. Their projects reflected creativity and technical prowess, featuring use cases such as:

A chatbot answering frequently asked questions to assist PUP students
A recipe chatbot suggesting and explaining dishes from a specific cookbook
A location-aware chatbot providing directions based on place names or uploaded images

These presentations highlighted the participants’ understanding of AI’s real-world applications and their innovative approaches.

Concluding Ceremonies:

The event concluded with closing remarks by GDG PUP’s Data and Machine Learning Lead, John Paul Curada. He expressed heartfelt gratitude to all participants, commending their dedication, creativity, and enthusiasm throughout the day. He emphasized the importance of collaboration, continuous learning, and the vast potential AI holds in solving real-world challenges.

Build with AI 2025 is part of GDG PUP’s very own hackathon
competition, Sparkfest, providing participants a supportive environment to develop and improve their projects. An invitation highlighted throughout the day by the event hosts and GDG PUP’s Chief Technology Officer, Gladwin Ferdz Del Rosario which emphasized Sparkfest as a platform where participants could turn their ideas into real-world solutions.

Personal Reflection and Conclusions:
Helping lead Build with AI 2025, I realize it was so much more than just a coding event — it became a true catalyst for innovation and a launchpad for new possibilities. Watching the participants dive into hands-on workshops and then bring their ideas to life through the project phase was inspiring. They didn’t just build AI chatbots; they showcased creativity, technical skill, and practical problem-solving in ways that genuinely impressed me. What struck most was how the event embodied the spirit of sparking connections — not just between people, but also between ideas, technologies, and opportunities. By giving students the platform to innovate and build, they can unlock their potential and turn ideas into meaningful solutions that impact the world around them.

As a famous quote once said:

“The programmers of tomorrow are the wizards of the future. You’re going to look like you have magic powers compared to everybody else.”

Gabe Newell

Scrapyard Metro Manila 2025: A 12-Hour Hackathon by Teens, for Teens

KaKaComputer — Wed, 07 May 2025 11:36:44 +0000

March 15, 2025 - Globe Tower, BGC, Taguig City - Hack Club Philippines was able to organize Scrapyard Metro Manila Hackathon. This is a 12-hour global hackathon organized by high schoolers for high schoolers and mainly powered by Hack Club, a 501(c)(3) non-profit that supports a global community of over 50,000 high school makers. The team was able to produce 77 plus sign-ups, 50 + attendees, 7 projects, and 11 sponsors.

*What is Scrapyard Metro Manila? *

It is a hackathon made with love of teenagers for teenagers. It is an event where you can make the most extraordinary things you can think of! Anything, from a lamp that flashes faster the slower you type, to those ideas that you would not dare to consider to be useful, goes at the Scrapyard.

The event was started by the workshop that focuses in understanding how websites work. This encompasses the introduction in the creation and maintenance of websites and websites application.

Atcha Abe’s Basics of Web Development engaging discussion created a great interest for the participants about the realm of how they can build their online presence thru coding and
design. It was followed by Neil Riego’s Basics of Git, which introduces the participants to be able to learn to import projects into Git, make changes to it, and share it with other developers.

The workshop simplified the overwhelming technical jargons especially for beginners; allowing participants to project collaborations, excel in coding management, experiment with Git
features freely.

After the break, the afternoon part of the event was fulfilled again with another two exciting workshops. ** Roan Contreras’s Basic of Game Development** that features interactive gaming experience lit the high schooler’s creativity, immersing their imaginations into life thru understanding the core and
essentials of interactive entertainment.

Then afterwards, a powerful Introduction to Artificial Intelligence (AI) principles, techniques and applications
was explained by Danielle Meer; took everyone to explore how AI now was already integrated to our daily lives.

Upon completing the sumptuous workshops, the participants were able to apply what they learned. They were grouped into six to collaborate, explore new ideas and put it into a tangible project. Even with diverse skills and backgrounds, they
were able to produce a shared outcome, strengthened by newly found friendship and camaraderie.

A friendly competition was held and three winners were chosen:

Echoes of the Forgotten (Champion),
Mathapac (2nd Place),
Useless Object Detector (3rd Place)

Scrapyard Metro Manila was a remarkable event for participants, guests, sponsors and organizers. High school community is a group of brilliant young minds that will be the future of the next generation. Through the hand-in-hand affirmations of support of sponsors, uplifting mentorship of speakers, dedication of community partners and commitment of organizers, the event contributed a significant perspective for these youth thinkers. The Globe Team, as co presenter, brought up high spirits for the success of the event. The upkeep support of sponsors and community partners generated a relevant drive for productivity and an inspiration to the young organizers.

Hopefully, this event will be a start to encourage more high schoolers to expand tech innovations, explore greater possibilities, create valuable connections, and to provide solutions to real-world problems. Empowering the next generation is also empowering posterity.

About the Author

Jickle Claine Ong is a K-12 student from Barangay Gen. T. De Leon in Valenzuela City, Metro Manila. An active member of Hack Club Philippines, she is passionate about technology and innovation. In February 2024, she participated in the Accenture Hackathon, engaging in research, prototyping, and pitching ideas. She also played a key role in organizing the Scrapyard Metro Manila Hackathon in March 2025 at The Globe Tower in Bonifacio Global City. Additionally, Jickle was involved in Counterspell Manila, a beginner-friendly game jam for high school students held on November 23, 2024. Through these experiences, she has embraced the challenge of innovation and community engagement.

Breaking Barriers: Why Women's Representation in Tech Matters

KaKaComputer — Wed, 07 May 2025 11:25:29 +0000

April 5, 2025 – Manila – In celebration of Women’s Month, AWS Cloud Club - Adamson University hosted FalCat in Her BuildHer’s Era, their first event dedicated to empowering women in tech and addressing the industry's ongoing gender gap. With support from AWS User Group BuildHers+ Philippines, AWS Cloud Clubs from Archer’s, PUP, and Haribon, and sponsors KakaComputer and Tutorials Dojo, the event combined inspiring speaker sessions and an innovative ideathon to foster dialogue, drive solutions, and build a stronger, more inclusive tech community.

In today's tech industry, where gender diversity remains a challenge, creating supportive communities and visible pathways for success has never been more important.

Speaker Insights: Voices from the Field

The first speaker of the day was Uriel Alonso, Cloud Applications Specialist at Apper Cloud Labs and Community Leader of AWS User Group BuildHers+ Philippines. Uriel focused on the critical role of representation in the tech industry, especially in the technology field that remains predominantly male. She emphasized how visibility, inclusivity, and access to opportunities can encourage women and gender-diverse individuals to pursue technology careers.

Following was Maxine Ileto, IT Manager and Data Engineer at Procter & Gamble, who shared her personal tech journey. Maxine took the audience through her early internships and the challenges she faced as a woman in a male-dominated industry. Her honest stories about navigating microaggressions and impostor syndrome while building technical expertise resonated with many attendees.

The speaker session concluded with insights from Enrica Dio, researcher, scholar, and Captain of AWS Archer's Cloud Club. She shared her journey through hackathons and provided practical tips for those interested in participating in similar events. Her advice on team formation, rapid prototyping, and effective pitching prepared everyone for the afternoon challenge.

The Current State: Understanding the Representation Gap

Despite decades of progress, technology remains one of the most gender-imbalanced professional fields. Recent industry data shows women hold less than 25% of technical roles in major tech companies, with even lower representation in leadership positions. For women of color and those from other underrepresented groups, these numbers drop even further.

This disparity isn't just a matter of statistics—it represents missed opportunities for innovation, problem-solving, and comprehensive product development that serve diverse user bases.

Why Representation Matters: Beyond Numbers

Representation in tech isn't simply about achieving balanced percentages; it's about creating an industry that benefits from the full spectrum of human talent and perspective. When technology is developed by diverse teams, it better serves diverse users.

Representation is crucial in the tech industry for several reasons:

Inspiration and Motivation: Seeing individuals who look like you in positions of power sends a powerful message that YOU TOO can achieve success. This inspires people to pursue careers in tech and motivates them to push beyond perceived limits.
Validation and Belonging: Representation validates identities and creates a sense of belonging. It helps individuals feel accepted and valued in their workplaces.
Safety and Inclusion: Adequate representation ensures that diverse voices are heard and valued, creating safer spaces where everyone feels they belong.
Innovation and Business Success: Diverse representation brings unique perspectives, enhancing innovation and problem-solving.
Unlocking Potential: Representation unlocks human potential by revealing undiscovered talent and encouraging people to pursue opportunities they might otherwise feel are out of reach.

Addressing the Representation Gap

The challenge of increasing women's representation in technology requires multi-faceted solutions operating at different levels of the ecosystem. As I've discussed during my talk, here are some effective ways to bridge this gap:

Mentorship & Allyship

Strong mentors provide guidance, confidence-building, and valuable network connections
Effective allies amplify women's voices and actively challenge workplace biases

Tech Education & Upskilling

Targeted programs like scholarships and women-focused tech communities break down educational barriers
Hands-on training opportunities and certification pathways create accessible entry points

Inclusive Workplace Culture

Family-friendly policies, including flexible work arrangements support retention
Unbiased hiring practices and transparent promotion structures ensure fair advancement
Zero-tolerance policies for discrimination create psychological safety

Innovation in Action: The Ideathon

The second half of the event transformed attendees from listeners to creators through an ideathon centered on the theme: ""Bridging the Gender Gap: Internships as Gateways to Equality."" Six diverse teams had two hours to develop and pitch tech-based solutions addressing gender disparities in early career opportunities.

Judges evaluated entries based on innovation, feasibility, scalability, and potential impact on gender equity. The competitive yet collaborative atmosphere showed how technical skills can be channeled toward solving meaningful social challenges.

Building Lasting Change

Through events like FalCat in Her BuildHer's Era, the conversation moves beyond acknowledging the problem to implementing solutions. The AWS Cloud Club - Adamson University demonstrated how student-led organizations can play a powerful role in addressing industry-wide challenges through intentional community building.

Initiatives like this coming from students themselves represent a profound shift in the landscape of tech inclusion. When young people take ownership of creating the diverse industry they want to enter, it signals a generational commitment to change that extends far beyond temporary programs or corporate policies. These student leaders aren't just participating in the conversation—they're reshaping it! Bringing fresh perspectives and urgency to issues that have persisted for too long.

About the Author:

Uriel Alonso is a Cloud Applications Specialist at Apper Cloud Labs and a key member of the Professional Services Engineering team that delivers innovative cloud solutions. Passionate about increasing representation in tech, Uriel serves as the Community Leader of AWS User Group BuildHers+ Philippines, where she works to create inclusive spaces and opportunities for women and gender-diverse individuals in the technology industry.

Her dual perspective as both a practitioner and advocate allows her to bridge technical excellence with community building in uniquely effective ways. Beyond her professional and advocacy work, she actively fosters a supportive and inclusive tech community, creating environments where individuals feel not only welcomed but truly empowered, valued, and inspired to grow their careers in technology.

The Best Work Shifts for Maximum Productivity

KaKaComputer — Wed, 07 May 2025 05:20:42 +0000

Question 1: What are the pros and cons of being an early bird in the IT world?

Pros:

Reduced distractions: Fewer interruptions in the morning.
Increased focus: Higher concentration levels early in the day.
Proactive work style: Get a head start on the day and achieve more.
Potentially better work-life balance: Enjoy evenings and weekends with fewer work-related distractions.

Cons:

Difficulty adjusting: May require significant lifestyle changes.
Social limitations: May miss out on evening social events.
Dependence on routine: Disruptions to routine can significantly impact productivity.

Question 2: What are the advantages and disadvantages of being a night owl in the IT world?

Pros:

Increased creativity: Many find their creative peak at night.
Fewer distractions: Fewer interruptions late at night.
Flexibility: More flexibility in scheduling appointments and personal time.
Potential for deeper focus: Reduced distractions can lead to increased productivity.

Cons:

Social isolation: Can lead to social isolation if most social activities occur during the day.
Sleep disruption: Difficulty waking up for meetings or daytime commitments.
Health concerns: Potential for sleep disturbances and other health issues.

Question 3: How can someone determine their chronotype (whether they are an early bird or a night owl)?

Track your energy levels: Observe when you feel most alert and productive throughout the day.
Experiment with sleep schedules: Try different sleep schedules to see what works best for you.
Consider your natural sleep-wake cycle: Pay attention to your natural sleep-wake cycle and when you feel most energized.
Utilize online tools: There are online quizzes and trackers available to help you identify your chronotype.

Question 4: How can employers and employees work together to create flexible work schedules that accommodate different chronotypes?

Flexible work hours: Offer flexible start and end times to allow employees to work when they are most productive.
Remote work options: Allow employees to work from home, which provides greater flexibility in scheduling.
Compressed workweeks: Offer options like four 10-hour days or other compressed work schedules.
Core working hours: Establish core working hours when team members are expected to be available for meetings and collaboration.
Open communication: Encourage open communication between employees and managers regarding work schedules and preferences.

Question 5: What are some tips for optimizing productivity and work-life balance regardless of your chronotype?

Create a dedicated workspace: Minimize distractions and create a conducive work environment.
Prioritize tasks: Focus on the most important tasks during your peak productivity hours.
Take regular breaks: Schedule short breaks throughout the day to avoid burnout.
Exercise and maintain a healthy lifestyle: Regular exercise and a healthy diet can improve energy levels and focus.
Communicate your preferences: Clearly communicate your preferred work schedule and availability to your manager and colleagues.

The Perfect Life Partner For IT Professionals

KaKaComputer — Wed, 07 May 2025 05:20:24 +0000

Question 1: As IT professionals, we often spend long hours working on projects, dealing with deadlines, and navigating the complexities of the tech world. How can we balance our demanding careers with our personal lives, particularly when it comes to finding a romantic partner?
Answer 1:

Prioritize self-care: Make time for hobbies, exercise, and socializing outside of work.
Communicate your schedule: Be upfront with potential partners about your work demands and schedule.
Find common ground: Look for partners who understand and appreciate your career path.
Set boundaries: Learn to say "no" to work demands that encroach on your personal life.
Utilize technology to stay connected: Use technology to stay in touch with your partner even when you're working late or traveling for work.

Question 2: How can IT professionals leverage their unique skills and experiences to find compatible partners?

Answer 2:

Online dating platforms: Utilize online dating platforms and tailor your profiles to highlight your interests and career.
Tech-focused communities: Attend tech events, meetups, and conferences to meet like-minded individuals.
Volunteer for tech-related organizations: Connect with potential partners who share your passion for technology.
Showcase your passions: Highlight your hobbies and interests outside of work, which can attract partners who share similar interests.

Question 3: What are some common dating challenges faced by IT professionals, and how can they be addressed?

Answer 3:

Long work hours: Difficulty finding time for dates and social activities. (Solution: Plan dates in advance, utilize flexible work arrangements, and communicate openly with your partner.)
Geeky interests: Finding partners who understand and appreciate your tech-related hobbies. (Solution: Seek out communities and events that cater to your interests.)
Communication styles: Different communication styles between technical and non-technical individuals. (Solution: Active listening, clear and concise communication, finding common ground.)
Work-life balance: Maintaining a healthy work-life balance while pursuing a demanding career. (Solution: Setting boundaries, prioritizing self-care, and finding supportive partners.)

Question 4: How can IT professionals leverage their analytical and problem-solving skills to navigate the dating world?

Answer 4:

Data-driven approach: Analyze your dating preferences and identify patterns in your interactions.
Communication strategies: Develop effective communication strategies to build rapport and resolve conflicts.
Risk assessment: Evaluate potential partners and relationships objectively and realistically.
Continuous improvement: Learn from past experiences and refine your dating strategies.

Question 5: What advice would you give to IT professionals seeking a fulfilling romantic relationship?

Be patient and persistent: Finding the right partner takes time and effort.
Stay true to yourself: Don't compromise your values or interests.
Focus on building genuine connections: Build meaningful relationships based on trust, respect, and shared values.
Embrace the journey: Enjoy the process of meeting new people and exploring your own personal growth.
Remember that technology is a tool: Use technology to connect with others, but don't let it become a barrier to genuine human interaction.

Power Up Your Playtime: Jollibee Just Launched GameJoy Combos and They're a Gamer’s Dream Come True! 🎮🍔

Diana Gosamo — Wed, 07 May 2025 04:55:50 +0000

May 5, 2025 - SM Aura, Taguig - If you’re like me and love gaming almost as much as you love Jollibee, then get ready—because this new drop is fire. 🔥 Just launched, Jollibee officially kicked off its first-ever GameJoy Con, and it’s bringing something awesome to the table: GameJoy Combos. These new meal sets don’t just satisfy your hunger—they also come with GameJoy Credits that you can use to top up your favorite mobile games. Yes, your Chickenjoy now comes with actual game joy!

🎉 GameJoy Con: Big Names, Lukewarm Impact
At first glance, GameJoy Con looked like a spectacle, with multiple personalities and creators in attendance hyping up the campaign. The event had the ingredients for a community-powered launch, but some fans and observers felt it didn’t quite live up to its full potential. While the energy was there, the execution might’ve missed a few key opportunities to truly engage the gaming audience.
Still, the real star of the show wasn’t the program—it’s the GameJoy Combos themselves, and that’s where things get exciting.

🍔 What Are GameJoy Combos?
Started last May 6, you can get your hands on these limited-time GameJoy Combos at all Jollibee branches nationwide, via dine-in, take-out, drive-thru, or even delivery!
Here’s what you can choose from:
₱109 – Yumburger GameJoy Combo
Includes: 1 Yumburger, 1 Regular Peach Mango Pie, 1 Regular Drink, and 1 GameJoy Credits Mystery Card.

₱127 – Choose Your Fave GameJoy Combo
Choose from: Cheesy Yumburger, Crunchy Chicken Sandwich, or Jolly Hotdog—plus the pie, drink, and a Mystery Card.

₱472 – GameJoy Group Combo
Includes: 2 Yumburgers, 2 Crunchy Chicken Sandwiches, 4 Regular Peach Mango Pies, 4 Regular Drinks, and 4 GameJoy Credits Mystery Cards. Perfect for barkadas!

Each meal comes with a scratch card that contains random GameJoy Credits—you could get anywhere from 10 to 200 credits, redeemable through UniPin!
And here’s a pro tip: GameJoy Combos are priced exactly the same as Jollibee’s regular value meals—so you’re getting extra value just by choosing the GameJoy version. Same price, but with a free top-up card? That’s a no-brainer for any gamer.

🕹️ How to Redeem Your GameJoy Credits

Scratch the card to reveal your codes.
Go to UniPin.com, log in, and select “GameJoy Credits” under Top-Up.
Enter your codes to claim your credits and start playing!

📅 Redemption ends on October 31, 2025, so don’t sit on those cards for too long!

Even better, UniPin—one of Southeast Asia’s leading digital entertainment enablers—offers a wide range of top-up services for gamers. It supports both international hits and local favorites, making it the perfect platform for maximizing your GameJoy Credits. Aside from Call of Duty Mobile, MU Origin 3, and Eggy Party, you can also use your credits on titles like Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, Honkai: Star Rail, Valorant, Ragnarok Origin, and many more. There are even locally developed games by Filipinos such as: Potion Punch, Brawl Quest: Alice Brigade, Hapunan: Horror Game. Whether you're a casual player or a competitive grinder, there's something in UniPin’s lineup for you.

UniPin entered the Philippine market in 2018 to support the country's expanding gaming community with accessible digital payment solutions. Led by Country Manager Cynthia David in 2021-2022, UniPin formed strategic partnerships with 7-Eleven, DITO Telecommunity, and Gamer PH, enabling gamers to purchase vouchers and convert prepaid load into in-game credits. The company actively engages with the local gaming scene through events like the Glorietta Game Fest 2022 and themed community activities, such as a Honkai: Star Rail café event. These efforts have made UniPin a key player in the Philippine gaming ecosystem, supporting esports growth and strengthening gamer engagement.

You can get the GameJoy Combos at any Jollibee branch nationwide—whether you're dining in, taking out, going through the drive-thru, or ordering online via the Jollibee App, website, GrabFood, or FoodPanda.

📌 Note: Drinks vary by region—Coke in Luzon & Visayas, Pepsi in Mindanao.

🗓️ Promo Duration
Combo Availability: May 6 to August 15, 2025
GameJoy Credit Redemption Deadline: October 31, 2025

⚠️ Important Reminders
You can purchase multiple GameJoy Combos in one order.
Mystery Cards are only available with GameJoy meals and cannot be bought separately.
Once scratched or purchased, cards cannot be exchanged.
For Dine-In/Take-Out/Drive-Thru, you’ll get either the promo or your Senior Citizen/PWD discount—whichever is higher.
For Delivery, discounts can be combined.

While the GameJoy Con may not have hit max level, the GameJoy Combo Meals absolutely deliver—both on flavor and on fun. Whether you're topping up your account for a weekend grind or just craving a Jollibee classic, this promo’s worth jumping into.

TL;DR: Jollibee just made your meal the newest in-game item. Now that’s a cheat code we can get behind at NO ADDITIONAL COSTS. 🍗🎮💥

About the Author
Diana Lou Gosamo is a writer and content creator passionate about technology, gaming, and digital culture. With experience in crafting engaging stories across platforms, she brings a thoughtful and informed perspective to every piece. Whether exploring trends or sharing community insights, her work aims to connect, inform, and inspire.

Celebrating 20 Years of Arduino: Highlights from Arduino Day Philippines 2025

Andre ☺️ — Tue, 06 May 2025 02:39:00 +0000

Last March 22, hundreds of makers, students, educators, and tech advocates gathered at STI College Cubao for Arduino Day Philippines 2025, joining the global celebration of 20 years of Arduino and open source innovation. With the theme “Celebrating 20 Years of Arduino and Open Source Innovation,” this year’s event became more than just a commemoration—it was a powerful reflection of how far the local tech community has come and where it’s headed next.

The event opened with warm welcomes from Marvin James Erosa and Jeferson De Leon, immediately setting a collaborative tone for the day. And in true Filipino fashion, a surprise Zumba icebreaker added the perfect energy boost to kick things off. But from there, it was all systems go—talks, workshops, demos, and inspiring stories from all corners of the tech space.

One of the standout moments came from Dennis Patino, who introduced Pepito, a wooden, Arduino-powered robot designed for beginners. Born from the idea that “if students can’t go to the lab, the lab will go to them,” Pepito has helped over 2,700 students experience hands-on robotics even during the pandemic. His initiative, Robotics Education for All, proves that access to STEM education doesn’t need to be limited by location or resources.

Meanwhile, Ryan Azur walked attendees through a real-world IoT application using the new Arduino R4. His talk, From Sensor to Cloud, demonstrated how to build a full-stack solution—monitoring temperature and humidity with sensors, storing data on AWS with MongoDB, and visualizing everything in real time with a React dashboard. His reminder to the audience? “The limit is your imagination.”

For those eager to get their hands dirty with actual prototyping, Christian Jay Mendoza offered a practical roadmap. From choosing the right sensors to carefully breadboarding and verifying every connection, his talk emphasized the importance of building with intention. “Understand the code,” he said. “That’s what’s important.” It wasn’t just about building fast—it was about building smart.

Beyond the tech talks, Arduino Day PH 2025 also brought heart. Joshua Bascos of Alerto PH introduced this year’s hackathon theme: women’s safety and fire prevention. In his talk, he challenged participants to “imagine your loved ones as you build the solution meant for them.” That call to build with empathy rippled across the day—and could be felt in the projects submitted by teams like Alab-Hero, Fire Archers, and Lora the Explorer.

The celebration also stepped into the future—literally—with Kristian David unveiling Flux, a mixed reality lab that allows users to code, simulate, and prototype all in immersive 3D. His vision? To overcome the limitations of 2D simulators and make hardware experimentation more accessible and interactive. Flux, he explained, could be the next evolution in Arduino learning environments.

Meanwhile, Jenna Ilao of YGG Pilipinas reminded the crowd that digital careers aren’t just coming—they’re already here. Her presentation on Metaversity and the rise of the Metaverse Filipino Worker (MFW) explored how Web3, gaming, and virtual mentorship are opening new doors for freelancers, students, and remote workers across the Philippines.

Other speakers added their own layers of insight to the day. Angelica Naguio took us inside the world of custom mechanical keyboards, showing how Arduino can power not just function, but also creativity and ergonomic design. Daniel Cosare shared his joy in building Alf, a Bluetooth-controlled mascot that reignited his passion for robotics. And Paolo Lozada demonstrated how blockchain, Firebase, and NodeMCU can work together to build seamless, decentralized payment systems for IoT.

Throughout the event, the energy never dropped. Whether it was the DevCon Kids program championing coding for ages 9 to 15, or Mark Estopace’s deep dive into Azure IoT pipelines, each session painted a picture of a growing, thriving innovation ecosystem here in the Philippines.

At its core, Arduino Day PH 2025 was a celebration of curiosity, creativity, and community. It showcased how open source technology continues to empower a new generation of builders—from grade schoolers assembling earthquake evacuation robots, to seasoned engineers pioneering new use cases for IoT and MR labs. And perhaps most importantly, it reminded us that when we combine empathy with engineering, the results can be both impactful and inspiring.

Here’s to 20 years of Arduino—and to many more years of building, sharing, and dreaming together.