Inspired by the challenges faced by a local Special Education (SPED) school in their own community, a team of BS Computer Engineering students from De La Salle Lipa developed a groundbreaking solution to bridge communication gaps for students with hearing and speech impairments, particularly preschoolers. Witnessing the school’s teacher shortage and the struggles of differently abled learners, the team– composed of Althea Lat, Alexie Shane Lenesses and Nathanael Malabanan– was driven to make a difference.
Their answer came in the form of VOICEGEST, a robotic hand powered by voice recognition technology that translates spoken words into sign language. Designed to teach basic sign language, including the alphabet, numbers, and spelling, VOICEGEST is paired with a mobile app to promote independent learning and support SPED educators, especially in early childhood education. The project, developed under the mentorship of Engr. Imelda Martin, reflects the team’s strong commitment to inclusive innovation and community-driven engineering.
Their efforts were recognized on a national stage when Team DLSL won the championship in the MURATA ROBOLUTION 2025, an annual competition that challenges university students to develop cutting-edge robotics and AI solutions. With entries from six universities, the contest was judged by experts from DOST-TAPI, PEZA, Erovoutika, and the Philippine Manufacturing Co. of Murata, Inc. Teams had ten minutes to present and demonstrate their projects, highlighting both technical execution and real-world application. VOICEGEST stood out for its technological sophistication, functionality, and, most importantly, its social impact. The DLSL team clinched the top prize and a Php 50,000 cash reward, earning acclaim for their dedication to using technology for good.
The Victory and Its Impact
The success of Team DLSL at MURATA ROBOLUTION 2025 is not just a victory for the students but a testament to De La Salle Lipa’s dedication to nurturing future innovators in engineering and robotics. Through hands-on learning experiences, mentorship, and real-world applications, the institution continues to shape the next generation of engineers who will push technological boundaries and create solutions that make a lasting social impact.
The champions of Team DLSL celebrated not only their well-earned victory but also their contribution to the future of inclusive education through technology. Moreover, with this triumph, De La Salle Lipa reaffirms its position as a leading institution in engineering and innovation, using its expertise towards impactful social responsibility.
Written by Cristina Alfarita Larombi and Dfezie Tipan
Source: DLSL