A group of talented BS Computer Science students from the College of Computing Studies (CCS) at Western Mindanao State University (WMSU) proudly represented Mindanao in the Final Pitching Competition of the Byte Forward Hackathon 2025, held on October 21, 2025, at the SMX Convention Center, Pasay City.
The national competition was one of the highlights of the 51st Philippine Business Conference and Expo, organized by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) in partnership with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST). The Byte Forward Hackathon was powered by Converge ICT Solutions Inc. and Rev21Labs Inc., underscoring the strong collaboration between the private sector and government agencies in driving digital innovation and youth empowerment.
Representing WMSU with pride and excellence, Team Codeez is composed of Ruderick Abalos, John Kyle Alas-as, Lesler John Gantalo, and John Casper Santosโinnovative young technologists driven by a shared vision to harness technology for social good.
Their tech-based solution focuses on an interoperable electronic health record (e-health record) system designed for emergency accessibility. The system utilizes QR-based and NFC scanning technology, enhanced with AI assistance, to provide instant and secure access to a personโs vital medical information during emergencies. The innovation aims to bridge gaps in healthcare response by ensuring that critical data is readily available to first responders and medical professionals when time is of the essence.
Prior to reaching the national finals, Team Codeez earned their place after excelling in the Mindanao Leg of the Byte Forward Hackathon, held on August 26โ27, 2025, in Tagum City. Competing against equally talented teams from across the region, they impressed judges with their creativity, technical expertise, and the societal relevance of their solution.
At the national level, Team Codeez joined fellow Mindanao representatives from the University of the PhilippinesโMindanao and the University of Southern Mindanao, competing among 14 teams from universities across the country. Each team showcased innovative solutions aligned with the national call to promote digital transformation, technological entrepreneurship, and inclusive innovation.
While the competition brought together some of the brightest young innovators in the Philippines, Team Codeezโs journey stands as a powerful testament to the capability, ingenuity, and determination of WMSU students and the Mindanaoan youth. Their achievement reflects WMSUโs continuing commitment to empower future-ready innovators who use technology to address real-world challenges and contribute to nation-building.
Congratulations, Team Codeez, for representing Western Mindanao State University and Mindanao with excellence, innovation, and pride! Your success is an inspiration to the next generation of tech-driven problem solvers.
Photo Credits: Byte Forward Hackathon
