Kent D. Garcia, News, PUP San Pedro Campus
SDG 4 SDG 9 SDG 17
Three Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT) students from the San Pedro Campus showcased Filipino innovation and scientific curiosity on the international stage after representing the Philippines in the Asian Network for Education in Nuclear Theory (ANENT):MythSmashers Nuclear Science App Competition and participating in the Hamadohri Environmental Radiation Measurement International School held in Fukushima, Japan, from July 18 to 25, 2026.
Michelle Angelica Reyes, Kent Garcia, and Ezekiel Pinto earned the opportunity to compete internationally after winning the Department of Science and Technology–Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (DOST-PNRI) MythSmashers Nuclear Science App Competition. Their victory paved the way for the Philippines' lone team to compete against 18 teams from Asia and the Middle East in a competition organized by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), and The University of Osaka.
The student team presented ATOMIQ, an innovative mobile application designed to strengthen nuclear science literacy by addressing common misconceptions surrounding radiation and nuclear technology through engaging, interactive, and evidence-based learning experiences.
Beyond the competition, Michelle Reyes and Kent Garcia participated in an international study tour under the Hamadohri Environmental Radiation Measurement International School, where they attended expert-led lectures, conducted environmental radiation measurements, visited the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant and nearby communities, and gained firsthand understanding of disaster recovery, environmental monitoring, and science communication.
Rather than viewing the experience solely as an international competition, the students described it as a transformative learning opportunity that broadened their perspectives beyond the classroom.
"More than an international competition, this became an unforgettable educational journey. We learned directly from experts and locals, explored Fukushima's recovery efforts, and gained a deeper appreciation of how science and technology can help address societal misconceptions."
One of the most compelling lessons, according to the participants, was realizing that scientific knowledge becomes more meaningful when it is communicated accurately and responsibly to the public.
Although nuclear science initially seemed unfamiliar to information technology students, the interdisciplinary nature of the program enabled them to appreciate how digital technologies can contribute to science education and public understanding.
"As IT students, radiation measurement and nuclear science were initially outside the scope of our academic program, so we expected the learning experience to be challenging. However, the professors and experts delivered the lessons in a way that was engaging, practical, and easy to understand, even for non-practitioners."
The experience also allowed the participants to build friendships and professional networks with fellow students and experts from different countries, demonstrating how international collaboration strengthens scientific learning and cultural understanding.
Guided by Coach Prof. John Christian Esmasin and with the study tour coordinated by Dr. Jayson Carl Esmasin, the delegation exemplified how technology, innovation, and global engagement empower students to become advocates of science-based education.
As conversations on nuclear energy continue to develop in the Philippines, the students expressed their commitment to applying what they learned by promoting informed public discourse grounded in facts and evidence.
"We hope to bring these learnings back to the Philippines by helping promote science-based discussions on nuclear technology."
Their participation demonstrates that students can become catalysts for informed dialogue by combining technological innovation with scientific literacy—proving that education extends beyond competition and into meaningful public service.
This achievement advances SDG 4 (Quality Education) by promoting science literacy, SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure) through digital innovation, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by strengthening international academic collaboration. The students' participation was made possible through the financial and moral support of San Pedro Campus Director Dr. Minerva D. Ferranco, with the full support of the University leadership for their international trip. This collective commitment reflects the University's core values of Passion for Learning and Innovation, Excellence, Integrity and Accountability, Nationalism, and Sense of Service by empowering students to pursue innovation, engage in responsible science communication, and share knowledge for the public good.
Article Edited by: Gicel Roger B. Salvilla, Communication Management Office
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