President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. lauded members of the Philippine Robotics National Team (PRNT), saying their success in international competitions is proof that Filipinos can compete with the best in the world.

During a courtesy call in Malacañang on Wednesday, Marcos welcomed the young innovators and congratulated them for bringing pride and honor to the country through their achievements in various international robotics competitions in 2025 and 2026.

“Congratulations to everyone… Well done. Siyempre naman talagang napapakita muli na ang Pilipino ay kayang makipagsabayan kahit saan, kahit kanino (Of course, you have once again shown that Filipinos can compete with anyone, anywhere),” Marcos said in his brief message.

The President said the students’ accomplishments demonstrated the talent, dedication, and work ethic of Filipinos.

“Nakita naman natin (We saw) how capable Filipinos are, how dedicated they are, and how hardworking they are… Filipino talent has shone through,” he said.

Marcos encouraged the students to continue pursuing their innovations despite challenges and setbacks.

“Once you get an idea, don’t let go of it because it really matters. Stay with it even when it gets hard, even when you lose spirit for a little while. Stay with it, and it will all be worth the effort,” he said.

He also urged the young innovators to use their talents to develop technologies that would improve the lives of fellow Filipinos.

“You’re young and you have a long way to go. So keep going, and in that way, you improve the ease of living here in the Philippines for your countrymen,” Marcos said.

During the event, the President witnessed demonstrations of award-winning student-developed technologies, including SYLAX, an assistive mobility device for children with cerebral palsy; TUKLAS, a technology that helps archaeologists locate and document cultural artifacts; and FRANCIS, an artificial intelligence-powered companion robot designed to assist households and detect emergencies.

Marcos also personally tried operating TUKLAS, a robotic arm system used for exploration and documentation.

The PRNT serves as the Philippines’ official delegation to international robotics competitions and is composed of students who have excelled in global innovation events such as the World Robot Olympiad and the FIRST LEGO League.

The delegation was accompanied by officials of FELTA Multi-Media Inc., led by president and chief executive officer Mylene Abiva, who introduced the students to the President.

The student awardees came from schools across the country, including institutions in Batangas, Nueva Ecija, Bulacan, Muntinlupa, Albay, Legazpi City, and Quezon City. (PNA)