Following their success in the regional competition last year, the student-researchers from the College of Industrial Technology (CIT) of Pampanga State University demonstrated their innovation as national finalists in the 2026 National Invention Contest and Exhibits (NICE), held at Acacia Hotel Manila in Alabang on April 27–28, 2026. 

The CITizen researchers, Rodge Aeon A. Jimena and Ervin T. Garung—both BS Industrial Technology majors specializing in Automotive Technology—presented their innovation titled “Development, Evaluation, and Testing of Recyclable Plastic Materials.”

Also part of the core research team were Renzo Bacani, Jefferson Bellexa, Michael Dominique Caling, Wilson Macabuhay, Patrick Alfonso Quinto, John Patrick Reyes, and Tristan Roman, who contributed to the research and machine development.

As national finalists, the group presented their entries alongside top qualifiers from various regions before a panel of industry experts and evaluators.

The two-day event, organized by the Department of Science and Technology – Technology Application and Promotion Institute (DOST-TAPI), serves as a national platform for turning local research into competitive innovations with the potential for global adoption.

The student-researchers are accompanied by their coaches, Arnel T. Gutierrez and Dominic F. Pineda.

Also present to support the team were CIT Officer-in-Charge Dean Rozen G. Alfonso; Senior Education Program Specialist Dr. Jhon Paulo V. Oflaria, and Research Center Manager Engr. Charles Lim, both from the Research Management Office.

Photo credits: Research Management Office

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