Award-winning student game developers from Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) participated in the Department of Science and Technology's (DOST) ALT+TAB Festival after earning recognition in the nationwide Level Up: Esports Game Dev Challenge.

Representing the University's College of Computing and Information Sciences (CCIS) were Clinton Wayne Visaya, Jansen Baloaloa, and Gabriel Galapin, together with faculty adviser Eloihim O. Baculpo. They joined game developers, innovators, and technology enthusiasts from across the country during the two-day festival at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City on 20-21 June.

The team's invitation followed the recognition of their independently developed video game, BANGSAK: Water Rising, in the Level Up competition, a DOST initiative that encourages Filipino students, independent developers, and professionals to create original esports and gaming concepts highlighting local identity, innovation, and socially relevant themes.

Inspired by the traditional Filipino street game bangsak, BANGSAK: Water Rising reimagines the childhood game as a two-dimensional multiplayer experience in which players work together to avoid a lone seeker while floodwaters gradually engulf the neighborhood, reducing the playable area and introducing a survival element.

The game also incorporates themes familiar to many Filipino communities. Its flood mechanic reflects recurring flooding and flood-control challenges, while its pixel-art environments and character designs draw inspiration from the landscapes, architecture, and culture of Ilocos Norte.

During the festival, the MMSU delegation explored exhibits featuring locally developed games, emerging technologies, and innovation-driven products. They also participated in discussions on game development and digital innovation and engaged with fellow developers, industry professionals, creative entrepreneurs, and esports advocates.

The event featured demonstrations of independent Filipino-developed games, playable prototypes, technology exhibits, and innovation hubs showcasing products developed through science and technology, providing opportunities for participants to exchange ideas and build industry connections.

MMSU President Virgilio Julius P. Manzano Jr. said the students' participation reflects the university's commitment to developing graduates with strong technical skills, creativity, and innovation.

He added that national platforms such as the ALT+TAB Festival provide opportunities for young developers to showcase Filipino-inspired concepts while representing both the university and the Ilocos Region.

Organized by GridLock Games Studio in partnership with DOST, the ALT+TAB Festival brought together developers, students, inventors, researchers, and technology enthusiasts to showcase developments in gaming, science, technology, music, and pop culture.

The festival also highlighted DOST's support for the Philippine creative industries through research, capability-building, innovation programs, and strategic partnerships. Under the agency's Harmonized National Research and Development Agenda (HNRDA) 2022–2028, game development, animation, and film are identified as priority areas for science, technology, and innovation because of their potential contributions to the country's digital economy and creative sector.