On August 22, 2025, the 4th Year Computer Science and Information Technology students of the University of San Agustin successfully organized “Digital Pathways: Bridging Knowledge and Innovation” at Hotel Sta. Monica. Conducted under CSIT 412 – Seminars and Field Study, the seminar became a vibrant platform where students engaged with industry professionals and explored how knowledge, creativity, and innovation converge in the digital age.
The program opened with a warm welcome from Mr. Robert A. Aguilar, Jr., MIT, Academic Supervisor of the IT Program. In his message, he reminded students that seminars like this are not mere formalities but opportunities to learn directly from practitioners who live and breathe technology. He challenged them to listen actively, reflect deeply, and apply these insights in their academic and professional journeys—emphasizing that innovation requires not only knowledge but also the courage to act.
The lineup of speakers provided diverse and valuable lessons for future IT and CS professionals:
Mr. Ian Troy Pahilga, Software Developer and Project Collaborator of the Kabaro App, opened the discussions with “From Startup to Spinoff: Navigating Innovation, Growth, and Sustainable Development.” Sharing lessons from his own journey in the tech industry, he highlighted how ideas can grow into viable projects, how resources must be managed effectively, and how persistence and adaptability sustain growth despite challenges. His message underscored that innovation is not just about conceiving ideas but about execution and responsibility—aligning technology with sustainable practices. For students, his words reinforced the importance of resilience, risk-taking, and seeing failure as part of growth.
Mr. Ian Hero Lavapiez, Web Developer from New Cardano, followed with “Level Up Your Development: Practical AI Integration for Developers.” He moved beyond AI buzzwords by showing how Artificial Intelligence can be applied in web development to transform static websites into intelligent, adaptive platforms. Through real-world examples, he demonstrated features such as AI-powered chatbots, smart search engines, predictive analytics, and personalized content delivery—tools that enhance user engagement and accessibility. More than technical insights, he inspired students to recognize the career advantage of embracing AI, encouraging them to start experimenting with intelligent solutions that will define the future of digital innovation.
Mr. Ryan Chris Ariego then offered a global perspective with “Crypto and Code: Exploring the Future of Digital Finance and Technology.” With clarity and enthusiasm, he explained the fundamentals of blockchain and cryptocurrency, stressing how these technologies ensure transparency, security, and trust. He emphasized that understanding blockchain is no longer optional but essential, particularly for IT and CS students preparing to enter industries shaped by digital finance. His presentation opened students’ eyes to opportunities in the growing FinTech sector and sparked interest in blockchain development as a future career path.
Shifting the spotlight to the creative side of technology, Mr. El Alden Sorongon, Lead Graphic Designer at Mulave Studios, Inc., took the stage to emphasize the vital role of design in the digital world. While much of the seminar focused on development, innovation, and emerging technologies, Mr. Sorongon reminded students that aesthetics, storytelling, and user experience are equally essential in shaping impactful digital products.
Former HoloTech President Ms. Kris Ann Joy Tanena inspired the audience with his talk “Anchoring Dreams; Igniting Futures.” Drawing from his leadership journey, he emphasized the importance of vision, resilience, and commitment in achieving one’s goals. Ms. Tanena highlighted how every aspiration—no matter how distant it may seem—can be anchored in discipline and determination. He reminded students that success is not built overnight but through consistent effort, courage to face challenges, and the willingness to learn from both triumphs and failures. By sharing his personal experiences, he showed that leadership goes beyond titles—it is about inspiring others, making responsible choices, and creating pathways for the next generation. Ms. Tanena’s message resonated with the students, urging them to dream bigger, act with purpose, and recognize that the future is theirs to shape. His words served as both encouragement and challenge: to anchor their dreams firmly today so they can ignite futures of impact tomorrow.
The event closed with remarks from Mr. Ephraim U. Basal, Jr., DIT, who expressed gratitude to the speakers for sharing their expertise and commended the 4th Year students for successfully organizing the seminar. He reminded everyone that Digital Pathways is not simply about completing an academic requirement, but about broadening horizons, taking initiative, and preparing to face the ever-changing world of technology with confidence.
At the end of the day, Digital Pathways: Bridging Knowledge and Innovation delivered on its promise. More than a seminar, it was a transformative experience—where classroom theories met real-world applications, and where CS and IT students were equipped with knowledge and inspiration to navigate their future in the digital age.
