The UP Diliman Department of Mechanical Engineering (UPD DME) celebrated the achievements of its Class of 2026 during the UP Diliman 115th General Commencement Exercises on July 5, 2026, and the College of Engineering Recognition Rites held on July 8, 2026, at the University Theater.
The College of Engineering Recognition Rites brought together graduating students from the College’s undergraduate and graduate programs to celebrate their academic accomplishments. UPD DME graduates participated in the afternoon session, marking the completion of their academic journeys and recognizing the efforts that contributed to their achievements.
For the Class of 2026, UPD DME recognized 63 Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BSME) graduates and eight Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering (MSME) graduates, based on the Department’s graduation announcements.
Academic Excellence and Latin Honors
Among the graduating Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BSME) students, 24 graduates received Latin honors in recognition of their outstanding academic performance throughout their undergraduate studies.
Two graduates earned the highest academic distinction of summa cum laude:
- Miguel Alvaro S. Tamase, GWA: 1.1250
- Simon Lemmuel P. Acol, GWA: 1.1715
Eight graduates earned magna cum laude honors:
- Warren Dominic O. Beltran
- Andrew Jacob V. Buensalido
- Nathan Joshua B. Frialde
- Jose Rafael C. Locsin
- Angelo Karl F. Miraflor
- Kristoff John F. Padilla
- Shania Shanielle S. Saloma
- Hans Albert S. Sengco
Fourteen graduates earned cum laude honors:
- Ada Koreen V. Bacay
- Phillip Gabriel Cappo
- Tobit Raphael M. Casillano
- Charlez Miguel D. Comeros
- Alfred Bennette N. Dexter
- Erhick N. Enriquez
- Riana Gabrielle P. Gamboa
- Andrew Jahnne Labios
- Rod Justin D. Maligad
- Denise V. Pallasigue
- Trisha Mae F. Roque
- Bill Andrew A. Saret
- Hannah Triccia A. Tirona
- Gabriel Isaac E. Yu
These distinctions recognize the graduates’ academic accomplishments throughout the mechanical engineering program.
Special Academic and Leadership Awards
Two graduating BSME students also received special awards recognizing their academic performance and contributions to the Department.
Vicente T. Paterno Award for Academic Excellence in Mechanical Engineering
Miguel Alvaro S. Tamase received the “Vicente T. Paterno Award for Academic Excellence in Mechanical Engineering”, presented to the graduating BSME student with the highest General Weighted Average.
Tamase graduated summa cum laude with a GWA of 1.1250, earning recognition for his academic performance throughout his undergraduate studies.
Vicente “Tek” Hedriana Award for the All-Around Mechanical Engineering Student
Trisha Mae F. Roque received the “Vicente “Tek” Hedriana Award for the All-Around Mechanical Engineering Student”.
The award recognizes a graduating BSME student who has demonstrated excellence in academics, research and projects, leadership, and community service.
Roque, who graduated cum laude, received the distinction in recognition of her accomplishments across these areas and her contributions to the Department and the community.
Undergraduate Project Competition and Dr. Francis Chua Innovation Awards
The College of Engineering Recognition Rites also included the announcement of the results of the 2026 Undergraduate Project Competition, Dr. Francis Chua Innovation Awards, recognizing outstanding undergraduate engineering projects.
Two UPD DME projects received recognition in the Design Category.
First Place: BiDaKidney
“BiDaKidney: A Low-Cost, Semi-Automated Peritoneal Dialysis Machine” received First Place in the Design Category.
The project was developed by Andrew Jacob V. Buensalido and Allyson S. Cabrestante, under the guidance of Engr. Mikash P. Lumbera as project adviser.
BiDaKidney explores the development of a low-cost, semi-automated peritoneal dialysis machine, applying mechanical engineering design principles to healthcare equipment.
Finalist: AnkoFlex
“AnkoFlex: A Portable, Adjustable, and Easy-to-Use Ankle Rehabilitation Device” was recognized as a Finalist in the Design Category.
The project was developed by Vincent Daniel E. Co and Jose Rafael C. Locsin, under the guidance of Asst. Prof. Glyndel Kate A. Falqueza as project adviser.
AnkoFlex focuses on the design of a portable and adjustable device intended to support ankle rehabilitation.
The recognition of these projects reflects the students’ application of engineering knowledge to healthcare-related design challenges and their efforts to develop practical solutions through undergraduate research and design.
Celebrating the Class of 2026
The graduation and recognition ceremonies marked the completion of an important chapter for the Department’s undergraduate and graduate students. Their achievements represent years of academic preparation, research, collaboration, and personal dedication.
UPD DME extends its congratulations to all members of the Class of 2026, including the Latin honor graduates, special award recipients, and undergraduate project competition awardees.
The Department also acknowledges the contributions of faculty members, thesis and project advisers, administrative personnel, families, and friends who supported the graduates throughout their academic journeys.
As the Class of 2026 begins the next stage of their professional and academic careers, UPD DME wishes them continued success in engineering practice, research, further studies, and public service.