Mariano Marcos
State University

DOST invites award-winning MMSU game developers to creative tech fest

By Ryand Angelo Ugalde

Nationally recognized student developers from the Mariano Marcos State University College of Computing and Information Sciences (MMSU-CCIS) explored the country's thriving creative technology industry after being invited to participate in the Alt+Tab Festival at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City on June 20–21, 2026.

Representing the university were Clinton Wayne Visaya, Jansen Baloaloa, and Gabriel Galapin, accompanied by their adviser Mr. Eloihim O. Baculpo. The invitation came in recognition of the team's achievement in the Level Up: Esports Game Dev Challenge, a national game development competition spearheaded by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), where they earned accolades for their independent video game, BANGSAK: Water Rising.

BANGSAK: Water Rising is a modern two-dimensional multiplayer reinterpretation of the traditional Filipino street game bangsak. In the game, players cooperate to outsmart a lone seeker amidst rising floodwaters gradually engulfing their neighborhood.

As invited guests, the student developers engaged with fellow game creators, technology innovators, industry professionals, and creative entrepreneurs from across the Philippines. They explored interactive exhibits, emerging technologies, and discussions on game development, esports, and creative industries.

MMSU President Virgilio Julius P. Manzano Jr. said the students' participation in the festival reflects the University's commitment to producing graduates who combine technical expertise with innovation.

"Such opportunities prove that Filipino-inspired ideas, when supported by strong research, can thrive on national platforms. We are proud to see our students representing MMSU," Dr. Manzano said.

The Level Up: Esports Game Dev Challenge encourages Filipino students, independent developers, and professionals to create localized esports and gaming concepts that demonstrate innovation while highlighting Filipino identity and addressing socially relevant themes.

Organized by GridLock-Games Studio in partnership with DOST, the Alt+Tab Festival is a two-day celebration of music, gaming, technology, and pop culture. Inspired by the familiar computer keyboard shortcut, the festival serves as a platform for collaboration and the exchange of ideas among creators and technology enthusiasts.