CIT-U students made their mark at Can You HackIT 2026 Cebu, bringing home second place and an Outstanding School recognition for Cebu Institute of Technology – University (CIT-U).
The achievement came from L1ghtbyte, a CIT-U team that competed against student teams from universities across Cebu. Their performance showed how coding, teamwork, and problem-solving can turn ideas into practical solutions.
CIT-U Students Stand Out at Can You HackIT 2026 Cebu
Can You HackIT 2026 Cebu challenged students to develop solutions to real-world concerns. The competition focused on four areas: Resilient Systems, Intelligent Rural Transportation Access, Civic Access and Opportunity Platforms, and Transparent and Accountable Systems.
Throughout the event, teams built, coded, tested, and pitched their solutions. They also had to explain their ideas and defend their work before industry professionals.
For L1ghtbyte, the hackathon provided a chance to apply their technical skills in a competitive setting. The team worked together under time pressure and turned their ideas into a solution they could present and defend.
Their second-place finish highlighted both their technical ability and teamwork.
CIT-U Earns Outstanding School Recognition
CIT-U also received the Outstanding School recognition during the competition.
The award reflected the strong participation and performance of its students. It also added another achievement to CIT-U’s growing record of student accomplishments in technology and innovation.
The final rankings placed Exelia from Cebu Technological University – Main Campus in first place. CIT-U’s L1ghtbyte followed in second, while Undefined from the University of Cebu – South Campus took third.
The competition also recognized teams for their individual strengths. Pyth.On! from Silliman University received the Best in AI award. Meanwhile, Es miming from the University of San Carlos earned Best UX Design.
The projects were evaluated by industry professionals Mark Anthony Colobong, Consulting Executive Director of EY GDS; Mark Anthony Bioc, ServiceNow Solutions Architect and Americas Region ETP Lead at DXC; and Mike Largo, Membership Development Officer at CIB.O.
Learning Through Technology and Innovation
More than a competition, Can You HackIT 2026 Cebu gave students a chance to learn by doing.
The event brought together young innovators who shared ideas, solved problems, and tested their skills outside the classroom. It also gave participants a closer look at how technology can address real-world needs.
For CIT-U students, experiences like this support the university’s focus on practical and future-ready learning. Students can explore their interests, work with others, and develop skills through hands-on challenges.
This approach also connects with CIT-U’s computing programs, where students develop skills in problem-solving, software development, teamwork, and the use of modern technology.
Built Around You
At CIT-U, opportunities like Can You HackIT help students take their ideas further.
The experience allows them to discover where their skills can make a difference. It also gives them the confidence to take on challenges and build experiences of their own.
L1ghtbyte’s achievement at Can You HackIT 2026 Cebu is one example of CIT-U students stepping up, working together, and putting their skills into action.
And that is what being Built Around You is about.
With Cebu’s winning teams moving onward to Clark, the journey continues. CIT-U will be cheering for its students as they take on the next challenge.