The College of Computer Studies (CCS) of Our Lady of Fatima University (OLFU) Pampanga Campus made a resounding mark at the International Research Conference on Information Technology Education (IRCITE) 2025, held on April 4 at Bulacan State University – Malolos Campus.
Fatimanian delegates from the College earned high recognition across multiple categories, reinforcing the university’s reputation for excellence in information technology education.
The conference, which convened leading experts, educators, and students from across Region III, revolved around the theme, “Empower, Collaborate, Excel: Advancing Excellence and Inclusivity in I.T. Education for a Digital Future.”
OLFU Pampanga’s delegation brought pride to the university by securing three major distinctions: Best Research Paper in the IT Paper Presentation Cluster, Champion in the Information Technology Specialist – Device Configuration Management category, and Second Place in the Technical Writing competition. These accomplishments reflect the college’s commitment to developing competent and future-ready IT professionals.
At the forefront of these achievements was the research project titled “BrightWalk: A Smart Walking Cane for Visually Impaired Persons in Pampanga Using Arduino Based on Internet of Things,” which won Best Research Paper in the Information Technology Paper Presentation Cluster 2. The project was selected from among 18 entries for its relevance, technological innovation, and positive social impact.
The research, presented with clarity and depth by John Christian Regala (BSIT 4Y2-2), was developed collaboratively with teammates John Derrick Datu, Joseph Siapo, and Joun Ho Hong. The team’s solution addressed the mobility and accessibility challenges faced by visually impaired individuals through the integration of IoT and microcontroller-based technologies. The students credited their success to the expert guidance of Asst. Prof. Lailanie Calma, Ms. Charity Mary Arevalo, and technical adviser Ms. Arianne Lugmao, whose mentorship was instrumental throughout the research process.
In the realm of technical competition, Jorem Andrei Punesto (BSIT 3Y2-1) emerged as Champion in the Information Technology Specialist – Device Configuration Management category. Scoring an impressive 895 out of 1000, Punesto outperformed 17 other competitors, showcasing both technical prowess and strategic problem-solving. His victory underscores the strength of OLFU’s IT curriculum, enriched by focused faculty mentorship, particularly from Asst. Prof. Lailanie Calma.
Also earning distinction was Althea Tapnayon (BSIT 2Y2-1), who secured Second Place in the Technical Writing category. Her paper, “AI-Powered Learning: Revolutionizing IT Education for an Inclusive and Digital Future,” stood out among 14 entries for its insightful analysis of how artificial intelligence can enhance accessibility and inclusivity in education. Tapnayon’s success was shaped through the dedicated guidance of Asst. Prof. Calma and Ms. Charity Mary Arevalo.
These achievements were made possible through the visionary leadership of Prof. Raymond Macatangga, Dean of the College of Computer Studies, whose commitment to academic excellence and holistic student development continues to inspire the CCS community.
The performance of OLFU Pampanga – CCS at IRCITE 2025 affirms the university’s growing stature in the regional academic and research landscape and reinforces its role as a leading institution in advancing inclusive, forward-thinking IT education.
— Report by Raymond Lumagsao
