University of Bohol’s College of Engineering, Technology, Architecture and Fine Arts
(CETAFA) team has made it to the top 25 Regional Finalists in the 8th Annual
Philippine Startup Challenge which took place on October 13, 2023, at the
Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Central Visayas
Regional Office in Cebu City.
Their standout presentation was based on their innovative concept, “Cradle Talk”
which aims to enhance parent-infant communication through a real-time machine
learning device that can interpret the nuanced sounds of infants.
The device focuses on the five key baby sounds in the renowned Dunstan
Language.
Cradle Talk aims to deepen the understanding between caregivers and their infants
from early stages by using advanced technology.
The project proposal was a collaborative effort between students from the Computer
Engineering and Electronics and Communication Engineering departments under the
guidance of Engr. Ma. Liezl C. Gallardo, College Dean, and Dr. Norma J. Apao,
Department Head.
The team members include Rumil Christian Seloveres, Margie Manuales, and May
Joy Bongco from the Computer Engineering department, and Euberto Bongco III
from the Electronics and Communication Engineering department. Engr. Victor John
Anunciado, CpE, served as the group adviser.
The team’s journey began with a region-wide caravan on the Philippine Startup
Challenge 8 (PSC) conducted at the University of Bohol on August 29, 2023.
After a rigorous screening process, DICT 7 announced on October 2, 2023, that out
of 247 entries in Region 7, UB had secured a place among the top 25 regional
finalists. The team’s impressive performance during the live pitching event at DICT 7
Central Visayas Office in Cebu City earned them the 18th spot in the competition.