INNOVATIVE students from Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT) triumphed at the Swiss Innovation Prize Competition 2024 held last month.

Representing Mindanao and as the youngest finalists, Tristan E. Listanco, Princess Myer V. Fajardo, and Sittie Hafsa L. Mamangcao showcased their groundbreaking project, “Zeolite Innovations: An Advanced Water Filtration with Integrated Lot Real-Time Water Quality Monitoring System.”

The project, which combines environmental and economic benefits, competed under the Digitalization stream. The team earned third place, receiving a P30,000 prize and recognition for their innovative approach.

They were mentored by Asst. Prof. Apple Rose B. Alce and Engr. Ralf Ruffel Abarca.

This success adds to the team’s growing list of achievements, including the Outstanding Science and Technology Innovation Award at the ISPARK International Pitching Competition 2024.

Their earlier project, AquaGuardian, aimed at addressing water issues for the indigenous Tagbanua Tribe in Palawan, was a Top 7 finalist at the UNESCO Water Resilience 2024.