ILOILO CITY, Philippines, June 13, 2026 — The University of the Philippines Visayas (UPV) hosted the Quantum Computing and Cybersecurity Hackathon 2026, bringing together students, educators, researchers, government representatives, and industry experts for a day of learning and innovation focused on quantum technologies and cybersecurity.

The event formed part of the nationwide Quantum Computing and Cybersecurity Lecture Series and Hackathon organized by the Quantum Computing Society of the Philippines (QCSP) and the ISC2 Philippines Chapter, with the goal of developing awareness and practical skills in emerging technologies that are expected to play a significant role in the future of computing and digital security.

Team Champion of the Quantum Computing and Cybersecurity Hackathon 2026 at UP Visayas.

The program opened with welcome remarks from Dr. Francis Dimzon, Director of the Division of Continuing Education (DIC), followed by Atty. Jocelle Batapa-Sigue, Convenor of the Philippine ICT Network, Inc., who highlighted the importance of preparing communities and institutions for the technological transformations brought about by quantum computing and artificial intelligence.

Additional remarks were delivered by Philip Cassanova, President of the ISC2 Philippines Chapter, and Mr. Bobby O. Corpus Jr., President of QCSP, both of whom emphasized the importance of building a strong pipeline of talent capable of addressing future challenges in cybersecurity and emerging technologies.

The technical sessions began with Berns Buenoabra, Vice President of QCSP, who delivered an introductory lecture on quantum computing. His presentation introduced participants to the fundamental principles of quantum information processing, including qubits, superposition, entanglement, and the potential applications of quantum technologies across various industries.

Participants then heard from Paul Robert Griffin, faculty member of Singapore Management University, who discussed the growing intersection between quantum computing and cybersecurity in the financial sector. His presentation explored how advances in quantum technologies may impact financial institutions and highlighted the importance of preparing for future quantum-related risks and opportunities.

The morning technical program concluded with a presentation by Vijay Somaraju, CEO of Vyapti Resonance Private Limited, who spoke on Post-Quantum Security. He provided an overview of the emerging field of post-quantum cryptography and discussed how governments, standards organizations, and private-sector institutions are preparing for the eventual arrival of cryptographically relevant quantum computers.

Following the lecture sessions, participants engaged in networking activities before transitioning to the competition phase of the program. Teams took part in the Quantum Computing and Cybersecurity Capture-the-Flag (CTF) Hackathon, where they applied their analytical, cybersecurity, and problem-solving skills to a series of challenges inspired by real-world scenarios.

Participants, speakers, and organizers of the Quantum Computing and Cybersecurity Hackathon 2026 at UP Visayas.

The hackathon provided participants with an opportunity to demonstrate teamwork, technical expertise, and creativity while reinforcing concepts introduced during the morning lectures. Throughout the competition, teams worked collaboratively to solve problems spanning cybersecurity, cryptography, and emerging technologies.

After several hours of competition, the event concluded with an awarding ceremony recognizing the achievements of the top-performing teams and participants.

Closing remarks were delivered by Dr. Jonny B. Pornel, Chairperson of the Division of Professional Education, who commended the participants for their enthusiasm and commitment to learning. He also emphasized the importance of continuous education and interdisciplinary collaboration in preparing future professionals for a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

The Quantum Computing and Cybersecurity Hackathon 2026 at UP Visayas demonstrated the growing interest in quantum technologies and cybersecurity among students and educators in the region. Through the combined efforts of UP Visayas, QCSP, ISC2 Philippines Chapter, and their partner organizations, the event provided participants with valuable exposure to emerging technologies while helping cultivate the next generation of quantum-ready and cybersecurity-aware professionals in the Philippines.