Civil engineering graduates of the university have once again demonstrated their intellectual prowess by bagging awards in this year’s Mega Challenge National Cup, July 20, at the Ayala Malls Central Bloc, Cebu City.

Fresh graduate Darlyn Abalos was hailed as this year’s Mega Challenge Grandmaster as she battled against 95 contenders from 25 different higher education institutions (HEIs) nationwide, taking home a cash prize of Php 25,000.00, a full review scholarship in Megareview and Tutorial Center, and a plaque of recognition.

Along with her partner Joseph Ong, and with the guidance of CE faculty instructor and coach Engr. Mark Kevin T. Cidro, the tandem has persisted in bringing glory to the university as they secured 5th place in the team event category.

“It is a huge honor to represent the university in competitions like this, especially kay national stage pa tapos ha akun field pa gihapon — baga’t naging testament siya of how the CE department of EVSU honed their students into being competent enough to be able to go head-to-head with other HEIs.”

Additionally, Engr. Cidro shared the obstacles they faced before the competition, such as complications with the competitors’ schedules and self-reliance.

“Challenges for me as coach were that she was hesitant to join because of the gravity of the event. Present at the event were the champions and first runner-ups from the regional event in other regions, so I understand the pressure, ‘yun yung challenge for me, to convince her to join anyway.”

“Thankful ako na she won because she really needed the money to support her review. Thankful gihap ako kay [University] President for allowing me to travel to Cebu on official business, he said.”

Despite the challenges, Abalos pushed through, transforming difficulties into triumphs, setting an example of what it truly means to be an EVSUnista.

“It also feels surreal ba kay ang lalaking universities yung mga kalaban mo, baga’t dire mo ma-expect na sugad an magiging outcome. Pero despite the slight disbelief, I am still filled with happiness and gratitude kan God, kan Joseph and Sir Mark for the support, as well as sa CE Department, she said.”

Furthermore, Darlyn and Joseph expressed their humility, stating that they will remain humble for they know that they still have a lot to learn.

The tandem also conveyed their gratitude to their coach, Professor Mark Kevin Cidro for guiding them all throughout their competitive journey.

“Add to that pa yung napakasipag naming coach na kahit sa chat nagrereply kung anong magandang approach sa mga problems. Our Sir Mark has always been with us every step of the way, and for that we are very blessed to have him as a coach,” they shared.

Darlyn Abalos and Josh Ong recently graduated last month and are currently reviewing for the upcoming Civil Engineering Licensure Examination, having represented the university and won multiple titles in various national competitions.

Meanwhile, for the team event, Cebu Technological University – Danao Campus was hailed as Champion, while Cebu Technological University – Dumanjug Extention Campus and Central Mindanao University – Team A, finished 1st and 2nd runner ups respectively.

The Mega Challenge, hosted by Mega Review Center, aims to discover the best engineering talents nationwide.

Article by Emmanuel Aaron Leuterio.