Ateneo de Davao's SEA Fair 2026: A Dynamic Showcase of Student Innovation and Future-Ready Ideas
The School of Engineering and Architecture (SEA) at Ateneo de Davao University successfully organized SEA Fair 2026 on March 19–20, 2026, creating a vibrant platform that brought together innovation and forward-thinking concepts through a dynamic display of student-led projects and competitive events. This academic fair transcended traditional boundaries, serving as a crucial stage for students to present engineering and architectural solutions to real-world challenges, thereby highlighting how emerging professionals think, create, and innovate in today's complex landscape.
Commitment to Value-Based Education and Sustainable Development
University President Fr. Karel San Juan, SJ emphasized that the fair reflects the institution's dedication to shaping not only skilled graduates but also individuals rooted in purpose and societal responsibility. He stated, "We invite senior high school students to explore Ateneo. We offer a wide range of programs in the School of Engineering and Architecture," encouraging young learners to consider the university as a nurturing environment for growth and formation.
San Juan further highlighted the university's ongoing support for initiatives aligned with sustainable development, ensuring that students are trained to devise solutions that are both innovative and socially responsive. "At Ateneo, education is value-based—grounded in service, the common good, and nation-building," he added, noting that graduates from engineering and architecture programs are equipped to remain adaptive in an increasingly complex and rapidly evolving world.
Strengthening Global Competitiveness and Celebrating Milestones
SEA Dean Dr. Renyl Barroca shared that the department is actively expanding its capabilities, with strategic plans to enhance its international presence. He pointed out that SEA aims to boost participation in global competitions, such as pitching contests and innovation-driven activities, allowing students to showcase their talents beyond local confines. "The School of Engineering and Architecture has many future plans, particularly in strengthening our capabilities to compete internationally through innovative and initiative-driven activities," Barroca explained.
This year also marks the 15th anniversary of the SEA, underscoring its sustained growth and unwavering commitment to academic excellence and innovation. The school currently offers ten programs designed to meet industry and societal needs, including Industrial Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, Architecture, Robotics Engineering, Computer Engineering, Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Aerospace Engineering.
A Platform for Innovation, Inspiration, and Recognition
SEA Fair 2026 Event Head Faith Maureen Ursal emphasized that this year's fair went beyond a typical exhibition. "This year's SEA Fair 2026 is more than just an event—it is something that will be remembered as a lasting legacy," she said. Participants and visitors engaged with interactive exhibits, stimulating competitions, and groundbreaking student projects. The event also aimed to inspire senior high school students to pursue careers in engineering and architecture while fostering collaboration and creativity.
Various schools across the region competed in multiple categories, demonstrating their talent and innovation. Key winners included:
- Overall Champions: Philippine Science High School – Davao Region Campus (Champion), Davao City National High School (1st Runner-up), Davao Christian High School (2nd Runner-up).
- HEAckathon: Philippine Science High School – Davao Region Campus (Champion), Daniel R. Aguinaldo National High School (1st Runner-up), Davao Christian High School – V. Mapa Campus (2nd Runner-up).
- QuEAzzicle: Philippine Science High School – Davao Region Campus (Champion), Davao Christian High School – Team 1 (1st Runner-up), Davao Christian High School – Team 2 (2nd Runner-up).
- Thinker Quest: Panabo City National High School (1st Place), Philippine Science High School – Davao Region Campus (2nd Place), Daniel R. Aguinaldo National High School (3rd Place).
- Color Wave (Watercolor Rendering): Davao City National High School (Champion), Los Amigos National High School (1st Runner-up), Carlos P. Garcia Senior High School & Panabo City National High School (2nd Runner-up).
- EA Space Program: KSP Lunar Landing Challenge 2026: Philippine Science High School – Davao Region Campus (1st Place), Daniel R. Aguinaldo National High School (2nd Place), Bernardo D. Carpio National High School (3rd Place).
- Special Awards: Best Rocket Design, Most Fuel-Efficient Rocket, and Smoothest Landing all awarded to Philippine Science High School – Davao Region Campus.
- Drone Dash: Dr. P. Ocampo College Davao Campus, Inc. (1st Place), Davao City National High School (2nd Place), Los Amigos National High School (3rd Place).
- Bridge Building Contest: Francisco Bangoy National High School (Champion), Panabo City National High School (1st Runner-up), Davao City National High School (2nd Runner-up), with Panabo City National High School also receiving the Aesthetic Award.
- Decision Challenge (Case Competition): Davao Christian High School (1st Place), Davao City National High School (2nd Place), Daniel R. Aguinaldo National High School (3rd Place).
- Group Dance Showdown: Carlos P. Garcia Senior High School (1st Place), Davao City National High School (2nd Place), Davao Christian High School (3rd Place).
Inspiring the Next Generation of Engineers and Architects
By blending academic excellence, innovation, and values formation, SEA Fair 2026 not only showcased student talent but also reinforced Ateneo de Davao's call for young learners to become future engineers and architects dedicated to service and nation-building. This event stands as a testament to the university's role in shaping adaptive professionals ready to tackle global challenges with creativity and purpose.
