Filipino Engineering Students to Compete in Shell Eco-marathon Asia-Pacific and Middle East 2025

Feb 11, 2025

Manila, Philippines - The Philippines will be represented by some of its Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) champions to compete at the Shell Eco-marathon (SEM) Asia-Pacific and Middle East 2025. Taking place for the first time in the Middle East, the event will run from February 8-12. Teams from across the region will showcase cutting-edge innovations and push the boundaries of energy efficiency.

Three exceptional teams will represent the Philippines: Team Siklab from Jose Rizal University, UMindanao Wildcats from the University of Mindanao, and XU Mekan-Eco from Xavier University – CDO. These teams have demonstrated ingenuity and dedication in designing and building energy-efficient vehicles. Their works embody the spirit of Filipino innovation and excellence.

Team Siklab from Jose Rizal University is led by Team Lead/Manager Tim Harold Faisan a fourth-year BS in Electronics Engineering student who also serves as the team’s driver. Supporting him are Wilver Georpe, the Lead Technical Engineer, and Arleen Hibo, the Administrative Engineer, who are both also in their fourth year pursuing a BS in Electronics Engineering. Team Siklab is eager to showcase their expertise as they return to the competition.

The UMindanao Wildcats from the University of Mindanao are spearheaded by Joe Gene O. Dequilla, a third-year BS in Mechanical Engineering student who takes on dual roles as Team Lead/Manager and Administrative Engineer. The Wildcats also feature Emman Gabrielle Polancos, the Lead Technical Engineer, and Christonie Lim, a fourth-year Mechanical Engineering student who will serve as their driver. The team’s mix of young talents and seasoned competitors ensures a strong showing in Qatar.

Representing Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan, XU Mekan-Eco is led by Quennie Carl R. Cator, a fourth-year BS in Mechanical Engineering student who serves as the Team Lead/Manager. Supporting her are Ryan Fahigal, the Lead Technical Engineer, and Alain Francis Harun, the Administrative Engineer. The team’s driver, Seith Austin Pagud, rounds out the group, bringing his expertise and determination to the competition.

All three teams are a blend of seasoned competitors and fresh talents, with many members having participated in previous SEM events. Their dedication and innovation are a testament to the Philippines' growing leadership in STEM and its commitment to finding sustainable energy solutions for the future.

The SEM challenges student teams to develop ultra-energy-efficient vehicles that compete in two categories: Prototype, which focuses on futuristic, ultra-lightweight vehicle designs, and Urban Concept, which emphasizes energy-efficient, practical road-ready vehicles. Participants can choose from three energy categories: battery-electric, hydrogen fuel cell, and internal combustion engine.

Serge Bernal, Shell Pilipinas Vice President of Corporate Relations, expressed his excitement and support for the teams, “We are incredibly proud of our student teams who will represent the country, ready to showcase Filipino ingenuity and innovation on this global platform. They carry the pride of the Philippines.”

About Shell Eco-marathon

Shell Eco-marathon is one of the world’s leading energy-efficiency engineering programs for students. It challenges high school and college student teams from around the world to design and build the most energy-efficient vehicles to address future energy challenges and promote smarter, more sustainable mobility. The program provides a platform for high school and university teams to explore every aspect of design and technology, using their Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths (STEM) skills to build their ultra-energy-efficient cars, and then take them out on the track in competition.

Emman Gabrielle Polancos | Technical Engineer
Christonie Lim | Driver
Joe Gene Dequilla | Team Manager
Jamael Japson | Mechanic