The Holy Child Central Colleges, Inc. (HCCCI) Basic Education Department Robotics Team, composed exclusively of Junior High School students, paid a courtesy visit to the Office of the Municipal Mayor of Surallah on January 26, 2025, as part of the school’s continuing advocacy to promote Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education within the community. The delegation was warmly received by Municipal Mayor Hon. Pedro S. Matinong Jr., who expressed strong support for initiatives that empower the youth through technology and innovation.

The visit aimed to formally introduce HCCCI’s Robotics Program and present the school’s vision of integrating technology-driven and future-ready learning experiences into basic education. During the engagement, the Robotics Team showcased the achievements of Junior High School students in robotics and STEM-related competitions and activities, highlighting their competencies in engineering design, programming, and technological innovation. These hands-on experiences demonstrate how robotics education nurtures creativity, critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving skills—key competencies needed in today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape.

In addition, the team presented HCCCI’s current and future STEM education programs, emphasizing the institution’s commitment to continuously enhancing its curriculum in line with global trends and national development goals. School representatives also highlighted what HCCCI can offer the Surallah community through innovative education, particularly by producing technologically skilled, socially responsible, and innovation-driven learners.

A key highlight of the discussion was HCCCI’s openness to expanding its robotics and STEM initiatives beyond the campus. With the support of the local government unit, the school expressed its readiness to collaborate in extending robotics education to neighboring schools through the CIRI (Center for Innovation and Robotics Initiatives) program. This proposed collaboration aims to broaden access to robotics training, encourage youth participation in STEM fields, and cultivate a culture of innovation across the municipality and nearby communities.

Mayor Hon. Pedro S. Matinong Jr. acknowledged the importance of robotics and STEM education as drivers of innovation and community development. He emphasized the role of partnerships between educational institutions and the local government in preparing the youth for future opportunities in education, industry, and public service. The meeting was attended by school’s Principal Mr. Lowel M. Pasinag, MMEM, Ms. Rio Chrizl Nericina, LPT, Infromation Officer, and the coaches Mr. Harold S. Casiro the Head Coach and Mr. Jenson Teves from HCCCI, along with members of the Junior High School Robotics Team. Representatives from the Municipal Government of Surallah were also present, reflecting the LGU’s commitment to supporting youth-centered and technology-oriented initiatives.

Overall, the engagement reaffirmed HCCCI’s dedication to extending its educational mission beyond the classroom by actively engaging with the community and local stakeholders. This initiative aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education) by promoting inclusive and innovative learning opportunities, SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) by fostering technological skills and innovation, and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) by contributing to community development through education and technology. Through robotics and STEM education, HCCCI continues to help position Surallah as a growing hub for innovation, learning, and sustainable development—empowering today’s learners to become tomorrow’s innovators and leaders.