The College of Computing Studies (CCS) ignited innovation through a 3D Hands-on Smart Arduino Seminar and Workshop held across four batches at the Laguna University Library, Oreta Building, on September 20 and October 3, 9, and 10, 2025. With the theme “Smart Arduino Workshop: A Hands-On Journey Into Arduino and Real-World Applications,” the event featured productive discussions and hands-on activities that immersed the third-year students in the pillars of 3D Industry and Emerging Technologies.
Mr. James Aaron F. Guevarra, the Committee Chair of the Smart Arduino Workshop, led the first batch in a formal morning assembly. He expressed his gratitude to 3DBotics, who served as suppliers and trainers and worked closely with the College of Computing Studies in planning and organizing the event.
Following this, the Acting Dean of the College of Computing Studies (CCS), Ms. Joselle A. Banocnoc, delivered her welcoming remarks. She emphasized the crucial role of conducting these initiatives as part of the Program Intended Learning Outcomes (PILO) of the institution in hopes of aiding one of the most pressing issues in the industry—career mismatch. “Gusto natin nakaangkla tayo [roon] sa SDG 2030 which is sustainability; aalis kayo ng LU na kayo ay industry ready,” stressing the fact that students must be able to apply their knowledge in computing (modern terminology in technology) after they graduate.
Afterwards, Mr. Veni Flores, Founder and CEO of 3DBotics, shared an inspirational message on how their company began. He recalled that it was during the pandemic lockdown when he bought a 3D printer out of curiosity to provide activities for his youngest son, who loves to build legos. What started out as a personal interest soon turned into a business idea when they posted their creations online, providing them the opportunity to purchase additional 3D printers and manufacture their own personalized 3D-printed items. “Once na nahawakan ninyo ito at nagamit ninyo, hindi na kayo titigil. Because the possibilities are unlimited. As long as you have the imagination and creativity, the only limit is your imagination. This is a machine that will manifest all your ideas,” emphasizing how 3DBotics is revolutionizing the robotics industry as it incorporates artificial intelligence, 3D printing, and robotics into one.
The remaining batches followed the same program flow for the morning assembly. Adding to the lineup of the speakers are the inspirational messages from the BSIT Program Chair, Ms. Chrisna L. Fucio, and the Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA) of Laguna University, Dr. Marlon L. Atanacio, who shared their insights and underscored the role of conducting such activity to foster growth and nurture the students who are fueled by innovation.
Across the four batches, participants were divided into two groups assigned to separate venues together with their trainers for their hands-on bootcamp. Batch A was facilitated by Mr. John A. Villamiel, Training Director of 3DBotics, at the Old Library, while Mr. Roman B. Librada Jr., Branding Executive of 3DBotics, led Batch B at the Library Extension.
An insightful session commenced as Mr. Villamiel and Mr. Librada introduced the fundamentals of robotics and artificial intelligence. A video presentation featured the well-known robot Vector—an interactive companion robot powered by AI intelligence that represents the capabilities of AI and robotics in the field of modern technology. In addition, the trainers from 3DBotics highlighted the importance of crafting proper and precise prompts in AI tools like ChatGPT to generate desired results.
To lay the foundations of these tech concepts, an overview of the Arduino Kit, discussing its key components and functions, was presented as part of the initial hardware setup. Mr. Villamiel and Mr. Librada then guided the participants into the step-by-step process of building the 3D Reprogrammable Obstacle Avoidance Robot. This robot is designed to avoid obstacles and maneuver in any direction depending on how it was programmed.
The afternoon session of the bootcamp served as the robot programming and testing of the projects. This part of the activity allowed the participants to apply their knowledge in proper AI prompting, leading them to implement AI-coding basics for robot control, such as customizing its behavior and experimenting on its movements. The last phase of building the project showcased the final demonstration of the Obstacle Avoidance Robot assembled by the participants.
To formally close the event, Mr. James Aaron F. Guevarra delivered the closing remarks, noting that the day felt short because of how the workshop was filled with valuable insights and memorable hands-on activities for the students. He also acknowledged the efforts and dedication of the participants and organizers of the event, requesting them to give themselves a round of applause.
The event marked another milestone for the College of Computing Studies, proving its commitment to producing technically skilled individuals to stay competent in the ever-changing modern society.
Written by: Angel Frias
Photos by: Danilo Fernandez | Mark Stephen Espiritu
