Davao City, Philippines – In an exciting showdown of cybersecurity skills and innovation, Ateneo de Davao University (AdDU) emerged as the triumphant winner of the Hack4Gov Competition – Regional Qualifiers 2023. The event, held on the picturesque campus of AdDU on August 30, 2023, not only showcased the university’s prowess but also aimed to raise awareness about the critical importance of cybersecurity in the digital age.
The competition drew participation from several esteemed colleges across Region XI, cementing its status as a much-anticipated regional event. Among the institutions that joined the ranks were the University of Mindanao-Digos, Davao del Sur State College, Davao del Norte State College, Jose Maria College, AdDU, University of Immaculate Conception, Cor Jesu College, a third-year student from the University of Mindanao – Main, and another third-year student from Davao Central College.
Three standout teams earned their stripes in a neck-and-neck contest that put participants’ cybersecurity acumen to the test. Cor Jesu College secured the third spot with an impressive 960 points, while the University of Mindanao-Main clinched second with a commendable score of 1,070.
However, AdDU’s cybersecurity virtuosos stole the show, surging to the top spot with a staggering 2,105 points, sealing their victory and earning them the coveted ticket to the national competition slated for this October.
Remarkably, AdDU faced a daunting challenge leading up to the event, as they had a mere five days to assemble their team. Despite the tight timeline, Jerry B. Canale, Assistant Professor for Computer Studies, assumed the role of coach, guiding AdDU’s talents to an outstanding triumph that will undoubtedly go down in the annals of the university’s cybersecurity achievements.
As the regional champions, AdDU now looks forward to representing their institution and Region XI on the national stage, where they will contend for the title of national champions in the impending national competition. With their impressive performance at the regional qualifiers, AdDU is poised to make a significant impact and emerge as a formidable force in cybersecurity.
The Hack4Gov Competition – Regional Qualifiers 2023 served as a platform for showcasing cybersecurity expertise and as a source of inspiration for budding cybersecurity professionals, underscoring the vital role this field plays in safeguarding the digital landscape of today and tomorrow.