The Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology (NEUST) successfully hosted the Quantum Computing and Cybersecurity Hackathon 2026 in a hybrid format at the Mini-Convention Center, Sumacab Campus, bringing together students, researchers, industry experts, and government leaders to explore the future of quantum technologies and cybersecurity. The event marked the culmination of a 14-week lecture series and a Capture-the-Flag (CTF) Hackathon designed to equip participants with knowledge and practical skills in one of the world’s fastest-growing technological fields.
In her welcome remarks, NEUST President Dr. Rhodora R. Jugo challenged participants to become responsible innovators who will use technology for the greater good.
“The challenge before us is no longer whether these changes will happen. They already are. The challenge is determining who will shape them and what principles will guide their use.”
She reminded the participants that while technology continues to evolve, its true value lies in improving lives.
“Long after today’s technologies are replaced by newer ones, one question will remain: Did we use our knowledge to make life better for others? I hope your answer begins here.”
Representing the Department of Science and Technology – Advanced Science and Technology Institute (DOST-ASTI), Director Dr. Franz de Leon emphasized the urgency of preparing the country for the quantum age.
“The question before us as a nation is not whether quantum technologies will transform our digital landscape. They will. The question is whether the Philippines will be ready.”
He explained that today’s encryption technologies may eventually become vulnerable to powerful quantum computers, highlighting the need for quantum-safe cybersecurity solutions.
“The Philippines needs quantum-ready engineers, researchers, and policy professionals. Some of you will become exactly that.”
Meanwhile, Quantum Computing Society of the Philippines (QCSP) President Mr. Bobby Corpus Jr. encouraged participants to maximize not only artificial intelligence but also their own human intelligence throughout the competition.
“We encourage you to make full use of AI—but not Artificial Intelligence, the Actual Intelligence: your creativity, your critical thinking, perseverance, teamwork, and curiosity.”
He further reminded participants that success extends beyond winning.
“Success is not measured solely by those who win this hackathon, but by what you learn, the friendships you build, the ideas you discover, and the confidence you gain in solving problems.”
The event featured technical sessions from distinguished experts in quantum computing and cybersecurity, including Mr. Jeffrey Aborot of DOST-ASTI, Mr. Paul Lee de Simion, Chief Technologist and Board Member at Ingenie, and Mr. Ishan Basyal, Director of Program Delivery at SpeQtral. Their presentations covered quantum computing fundamentals, the future of finance in the quantum era, and real-world applications of Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) and Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC).
Following the lectures, participants showcased their analytical and cybersecurity skills during the Quantum Computing and Cybersecurity Capture-the-Flag (CTF) Hackathon, demonstrating innovative approaches to solving real-world security challenges. According to the event program, the day concluded with an awarding ceremony recognizing the top-performing teams.
The Quantum Computing and Cybersecurity Hackathon 2026 concluded with Team Vector-JC, composed of Christian Guillasper, Jodell Bulaclac, and Jemuel Carlos Solidum, emerging as the Champion. Securing the 1st Runner-up title was Team Grover’s Oracle, represented by Aldrin Obsanga, Jeff Andrei Bayhon, Renz Martin Rebogio, and Ruzzlee Salon. Meanwhile, Team 404 Team Not Found, composed of Roan Cedric Campo, Linus Carl Perdon, Patricia Bianca Indenible, Karl Christian Lapada, and Russel Simbre, earned the 2nd Runner-up distinction for their outstanding performance in the competition.
The Quantum Computing and Cybersecurity Hackathon 2026 was organized in partnership with the Quantum Computing Society of the Philippines (QCSP), DOST-ASTI, ISC2 Philippines Chapter, DEVCON Pampanga, and Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology, reaffirming their shared commitment to cultivating a new generation of quantum-ready professionals and cybersecurity leaders in the Philippines.
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