ASHS ProgVar dominates DLSU INNOVA-thon with First-Place Finish
19 Mar 2026
Ateneo de Manila Senior High School (ASHS) Programming Varsity (ProgVar) members JC Baclig (11–Perez), Jay Tacason (11–Perez), and Gabbie Gozun (11–Tsuji) clinched 1st Place at the recent DLSU INNOVA-thon. The two-day competition was held at the De La Salle University (DLSU) Taft campus from 13-14 March 2026.
The victory is particularly significant given the high caliber of participating schools from across the region. The ASHS team outpaced talented representatives from several prestigious institutions, including the University of Santo Tomas (UST), Marist School, Grace Christian College, De La Salle University – Senior High School (DLSU-SH), and University of Perpetual Help System DALTA.
Organized by the Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME) – DLSU Chapter, the INNOVA-thon challenged participants to go beyond theoretical coding. Each team was required to master the fundamentals of 3D modeling and demonstrate a deep understanding of how digital designs translate into functional, real-world manufacturing applications. The rigorous format tested the students' spatial intelligence, engineering logic, and ability to innovate under tight deadlines. By securing the top spot, the ASHS team proved its versatility in bridging the gap between software programming and physical product design.
The INNOVA-thon serves as a premier platform for young innovators to explore the intersection of technology and manufacturing. According to the SME – DLSU Chapter, the event aims to foster a "maker mindset" among students, encouraging them to utilize modern tools like Computer-Aided Design (CAD) to solve contemporary industrial challenges. This year’s theme focused on sustainable and scalable engineering solutions, pushing contestants to consider the long-term impact of their creations.