Rezz Tony Piraman, a fourth-year Computer Engineering student at Bicol University Polangui Campus (BUPC), bested other participants in the recently concluded National CpE Challenge 2023 and was declared 1st runner-up in the Python programming competition held from January 19 to 21, 2023.

As part of the 1st International Research Conference on Computer Engineering and Technology, which revolved around the theme “Embracing Computing Innovations through Research Advancement and Discoveries,” the Institute of Computer Engineers of the Philippines (ICpEP) Inc., together with the Computer Engineering Certification Board (CpECB) Inc., spearheaded the three-day event at the Fort Ilocandia Resort Hotel, Laoag City, Ilocos Norte.

Python is a type of programming language that is widely used today for different purposes such as simulation, creating web pages, communicating with database systems, and the like.

Piraman also competed in the same category at the national level last March 2022 and was able to secure the 2nd overall place. "I was surprised that my skills are still on point for this year’s competition and was quite proud of myself for achieving such a milestone for the second time," Piraman said during an interview.

Apart from the guidance of his coach, Engr. Norlijun Hilutin, the programming enthusiast revealed that his training sessions were mostly self-taught and that he did not force himself to follow any practice schedules but rather studied at his own pace and at his most convenient time.

He was selected to represent BU and the region after winning the school-based and regional level competitions, respectively.

Furthermore, Piraman described his experience as helpful and worthy, for he was able to meet new people and share a memorable moment with them.

BUPC represents Bicol in breadboarding

Three other BUPC-CpE students, namely Arnold James Briones, Vel Benipayo, and Abegail Sario, who were proclaimed champions of the Bicol-wide breadboarding competition, also participated in this year’s event. Although they were unable to bring home any titles, their participation in the tournament demonstrated their commitment in sharing their knowledge and skills in technology and engineering. | by Janna Alyssa Jacob and Emmanuel Lozano Bongcodin (BU-CPRO Student Affiliates)