Hollywood films that showcase robots encompass timeless classics such as The Terminator, I, Robot, WALL-E, and The Iron Giant, alongside more recent productions like Ex Machina, Pacific Rim, and the Transformers series. Robots are depicted in a range of roles, from threatening adversaries to supportive allies, across multiple genres including action, drama, and animation.
While robots are indeed captivating, the concept may seem unrealistic to many Filipinos. However, for Engr. John Kyl D. Cortez, 23, who graduated cum laude with a degree in BS Robotics Engineering from Ateneo de Davao University (ADDU), this is not the case.
“I first encountered robotics in 2018 during an Arduino seminar workshop in Davao City, where I was one of the first Junior High School learners in the region to receive formal robotics training from the regional office of the Department of Education, together with my classmate and my teacher, Mr. Kim Dela Cruz.
“That experience sparked my curiosity and showed me how machines could be programmed to move, think, and respond. Since then, I have been fascinated by how robotics combines mechanics, electronics, and computer science, and I wanted to dive deeper into that challenge. For me, robotics is not just about building robots. It is about creating solutions that can improve lives and make solutions to problems in different industries.”
That was the reason why he took Robotics Engineering at the ADDU, the first to offer it as a full bachelor’s degree in the country. “I chose Ateneo de Davao University because it really matched my passion for robotics and technology,” explains Cortez, who is from Digos City. “Beyond the program, I saw the university has a strong culture of service and generosity.”
Fortunately, he got a scholarship from the university to pursue his dream. But if college is tough for more students, more so if you are taking robotics as a course. “Every year in college had its struggles, but two experiences really tested me,” he recalls.
“One was when I almost failed my major subject in Instrumentation and Control Systems,” he continues. “That course is about designing and understanding systems that measure and control processes in a mathematical manner, which is very important in robotics. At that time, it felt like everything was falling apart. My scholarship was on the line and I worried that I might lose the chance of graduating with honors. I was desperate to save the subject, and the only choice I had was to give it my all. I poured everything into it, and that experience taught me to fight through fear and pressure.”
The other struggle he had to face was his thesis. “Unlike in other programs, ours was individual, and we each had to create a working intelligent robot. My project was about automating a process in renewable energy, and I was guided by my adviser, Engr. Mardione Albert Mozo. At first, I thought everything was going smoothly, but later I realized how difficult it really was. Materials for robotics are not always available in the country, and that caused a lot of delays. I remember spending semester breaks and holidays in my dorm working on my robot, It was not because I was tardy, but because I wanted my system to be perfect and clean since I want to go beyond the bare minimum that was expected of me, while seeing my friends and classmates go home and spend time with their families. I felt tired, envious, and sometimes even questioned if I could finish it.”
However, with the support of his advisor and the sacrifices he undertook, Cortez managed to persevere. “Looking back, those hardships made me stronger, more determined, and more prepared for the challenges ahead,” he says.
If he encountered difficulties while studying, particularly because the subjects were primarily centered around robots. “It was very hard to focus on robots because the course demanded so much of my time and energy,” he says. “Robotics is not just about one subject. You have to learn mechanics, electronics, programming, and research writing all at the same time.”
There were instances when he experienced a sense of being overwhelmed, particularly when numerous projects accumulated and deadlines were approaching. “I even reached a point where I questioned if I could really handle it. But what kept me going was my passion for robotics and the joy I felt whenever I made a system work after so many trials. That feeling reminded me why I chose this path in the first place. I knew it was something I truly wanted to do, and I also knew that this is where I can contribute for the common good.”
Reflecting on the past, it was an experience Cortez would hold dear throughout his life. It is remarkable to consider that he commenced his college journey right in the midst of the pandemic. “Our batch consisted of 8 students, including one international student from the United States,” he says.
As time progressed, the number dwindled to 4, and ultimately, only two individuals successfully graduated from the course. “Although not everyone followed the same trajectory, I can confidently say that they are all thriving in their respective paths now,” he adds.
In June this year, he was able to graduate. “After so many struggles, finally having the word ‘Engr.’ in my name felt surreal,” he says. “Back when I was just pursuing it, I thought it was only about proving myself and earning a title. But now that I have it, I realized it carries a deeper meaning. Those four letters are not just a reward for my hard work; they are also a responsibility.
“As an engineer, I am accountable for using what I learned not only for myself but for others. It reminded me that this profession is not just about building systems or machines but about making sure that what I create serves people and contributes to the common good,” he points out.
A month after graduation, he was hired as a faculty member in Robotics Engineering. “We don’t only teach our students to build robots but also expose them to emerging technologies like 3D printing, drones, automation, and artificial intelligence. These fields are continuously growing, and industries are looking for people who can apply them to real-world solutions. Having that background gave me flexibility, so I wasn’t limited to just one area. It opened doors for me in different industries that are now adapting to these technologies.”
Teaching at ADDU served as his means of giving back to the university that shaped him into the person he is today. “Teaching at ADDU right after graduation felt meaningful to me because it was my way of giving back to the institution that supported me through scholarships and opportunities,” Cortez says. “At the same time, being an instructor allows me to keep learning and strengthening my knowledge in robotics while I prepare myself for my future plans in the industry. It has been both a privilege and a responsibility to guide students who are now walking the same path I once did.”
His future looks brighter than ever. “I want to pursue a master’s degree, preferably in robotics, space engineering, or artificial intelligence, to deepen my expertise,” he says. “After that, I plan to move into the industry where I can apply what I’ve learned, gain more experience, and contribute to developing technologies that can make an impact in society.”
If he is given a chance to work in another country, he would prefer the United States or Singapore. “The US is home to cutting-edge developments in robotics, especially in space exploration through NASA and companies like SpaceX,” he explains. “Singapore, on the other hand, is becoming a hub for robotics and advanced technology in Asia.
“My goal is to gain experience in these environments, learn from the best, and eventually bring that knowledge back to the Philippines and share with my fellow Filipino engineers. I want to help strengthen the robotics industry here and inspire future engineers to see how far we can go.”
Right now, the Philippines is still behind compared to other Asian countries when it comes to robotics. “But I believe Filipinos have the skills and talents to catch up,” Cortez believes. “I’ve seen how creative and resourceful Filipinos can be, even when resources are limited. What we need is more support through widespread quality robotics education, proper facilities, and opportunities for students and professionals to grow in this field. With motivation, collaboration, and the right investments, I truly believe the Philippines can compete in robotics and even make its own mark, not just in Asia, but in the world.”
