Faculty members from the Science and Research Departments of Saint Louis University Basic Education School (SLU BEdS) participated in “Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) Forward: Connecting Classroom Innovation to Baguio’s Future,” a seminar on innovation and robotics held on 16 June 2026, at the Mini Theater of the Gerard Decaestecker Building, SLU Navy Base Campus.
Organized by the SLU-BEdS Science and Innovation Center, Science Department, and Research Department, the event gathered 20 educators with the experts from the City Government of Baguio, the Department of Science and Technology-Cordillera Administrative Region (DOST-CAR), the Mechatronics and Robotics Society of the Philippines-Baguio Chapter, and Empitech Startup.
The seminar opened with discussions on Baguio City’s future development priorities and innovation initiatives. Ms. Micaela Gay Rimando, Senior Economist and Lead Technical Focal for Innovation and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the City Planning, Development, and Sustainability Office, presented the city’s Smart City initiatives, sustainability challenges, and opportunities for educational institutions to contribute through research and innovation. This was followed by Dr. Pepita S. Picpican, Assistant Regional Director for Technical Services of DOST-CAR, who introduced participants to government-supported research and development programs, innovation ecosystems, and funding opportunities available for schools and community-based projects.
The afternoon sessions focused on emerging technologies and their applications in education. Engr. Maria Victoria E. Castillo, President of the Mechatronics and Robotics Society of the Philippines-Baguio Chapter, discussed robotics fundamentals, mechatronics applications, industry trends, and student learning pathways. Participants then engaged in a hands-on workshop facilitated by Engr. Sean Ernest Empizo, CEO and Founder of Empitech Startup, where they explored basic robotics and computing tools before collaboratively designing STEAM-based project prototypes that addressed local community challenges.
The seminar sought to increase teachers’ awareness of Baguio City’s development priorities and DOST- CAR’s innovation initiatives while equipping them with foundational knowledge in robotics and computer engineering. By connecting classroom instruction with real-world issues, the activity seeks to inspire educators to feel confident and motivated to foster innovative and inclusive learning, supporting SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure).
The initiative also reflects the CICM Advocacy on the Integrity of Creation, promoting responsible stewardship of resources, sustainable development, and service to communities. Through collaboration among educators, government agencies, researchers, and industry professionals, STEAM Forward aims to foster a shared sense of purpose in preparing future-ready educators who can address societal challenges through STEAM, contributing to Baguio City’s sustainable development and community well- being. (Article by Charm Penalba- Beds Laboratory High School Science Department | Photos by Almark Bisaya and The Louisian)
