Competing on an international stage is both a privilege and a challenge—one that Siklab Rizal proudly took on at the Shell Eco-Marathon Asia Pacific and the Middle East, held at Lusail International Circuit, Doha, Qatar.
With a mission to showcase Filipino ingenuity in energy-efficient vehicle innovation, the team brought their expertise, determination, and collaborative spirit to the competition. Backed by the support of Rapidé Auto Service Experts and JRU, they seized the opportunity to represent the country and prove that Filipinos have the skills to compete globally.
The team is composed of Engr. Rafael Dimaculangan, Engr. Raymond Joseph Meimban, Tim Harold P. Faisan (Team Manager), John Bernard D. Olivera (Chief Mechanic), Bryan Angelo B. Tapales (Chief Electrical), Wilver S. Georpe (Lead Technical Engineer/Reserved Driver), Charlie Causo (Technical Support), Franz C. Jimenez (Mechanic), Claude Ham Labastida (CAD Designer), Chaira Rose M. Joves (Chief CAD Designer/Treasurer), Ej Elijah Ambia (Electrical), and Arlene J. Hibo (Administrative Engineer).
Q: How does it feel to represent the Philippines and Jose Rizal University on the international stage at Shell Eco-marathon Asia 2025? How has participating in the Shell Ecomarathon helped your team grow in terms of engineering skills and teamwork?
John Bernard Olivera: “Representing the Philippines and José Rizal University at Shell Eco-marathon Asia 2025 is an incredible honor and a proud moment for us. Growing up, we didn’t have many opportunities to travel, so being part of this international competition is a life-changing experience. Thanks to the sponsorship from Rapidé and JRU, we were given the platform to showcase not just our skills and knowledge as students but also the potential of the Philippines in the field of energy-efficient vehicle innovation. Competing against some of the best teams from different countries has been both inspiring and challenging. Seeing how advanced other teams are made us realize the areas where we can still improve, but at the same time, it showed us that we have what it takes to stand alongside them. This experience has been a great learning opportunity, pushing us to work harder and aim higher. Five years from now, I believe we will be even more competitive, equipped with greater knowledge, experience, and confidence to take on the global stage in an even bigger way.”
Q: What were the biggest challenges your team faced during the technical inspection, and how did you overcome them?
Tim Harold Faisan: “One of the biggest challenges we faced during the technical inspection was an issue with our braking system, specifically the handbrake. Since I was part of the technical inspection team in Qatar, I knew how crucial it was for our vehicle to meet all safety requirements, and failing the braking test meant we couldn’t proceed to the next stage of the competition. When we encountered the problem, we immediately went back to our vehicle to reassemble and adjust the handbrake. We carefully checked every component to ensure it was properly installed and functioning as expected. It took a lot of effort and precision because we had to make sure that once we returned for another round of inspection, the braking system would meet the required standards. Fortunately, after making the necessary adjustments, we passed the inspection and were able to move forward in the competition.”
Q: How did Siklab Rizal push the boundaries of engineering and sustainability in this year’s competition?
Chaira Rose Joves: “This year, Siklab Rizal focused on key innovations and improvements to enhance both engineering efficiency and sustainability. One of the biggest changes we made was transforming the vehicle’s body. We used aluminum to make it lighter and more compact, which significantly improved its overall performance. In addition to the structural adjustments, we also upgraded various electrical and mechanical components to optimize efficiency. Our team dedicated three months to refining these aspects, ensuring that every modification contributed to a more sustainable and high-performing vehicle. By prioritizing these improvements, we were able to push the boundaries of what our team could achieve, making Siklab Rizal more competitive in this year’s Shell Eco-marathon.”
Q: How do you see the role of alumni in the sustainability of Siklab Rizal?
Tim Harold Faisan: “Our alumni play a big role in the sustainability of Siklab Rizal, not just in terms of support but also in the continuous improvement of our designs. For example, the original body of our vehicle from the pioneer team was made of fiberglass, which was much heavier compared to the aluminum body we use now. A heavier car consumes more battery power, so by making it lighter, we improve energy efficiency and extend our run time. The knowledge and innovations passed down from previous teams help us refine our vehicle each year. Their experiences guide us in making better design choices, ensuring that Siklab Rizal continues to evolve and compete at a higher level while promoting sustainability in engineering.”
Q: What were the most memorable moments from your Shell Eco-marathon journey, both on and off the track?
John Bernard Olivera: “One of the most memorable moments for me during our Shell Eco-marathon journey was when we had the chance to help another team. We made friends with a team from Saudi Arabia, and they faced a last-minute issue with their vehicle—something similar to what we experienced last year, a real buzzer-beater situation. Even though our team had already passed the technical inspection and could finally relax, we couldn’t help but feel their anxiety. They were missing some components, and since time was running out, we decided to help them search for what they needed. We went around asking other teams, but many were unsure if they could spare the parts because they were meant
for other vehicles. It was a tense and emotional moment, but when the Saudi Arabia team finally passed—just two minutes before the inspection closed—we almost teared up from the joy and relief they felt. It was a powerful experience that showed how, despite being competitors, we were all there to support one another.”
Q: What’s next for Siklab Rizal after this competition, and how do you plan to improve for future challenges?
Charlie Causo: “Since most of our team members are graduating, I’ll be taking on the role of the next manager for Siklab Rizal. One of the biggest challenges we faced this year was not being able to complete a valid run, similar to what happened last year. That’s something we are determined to improve on for next year—we will make sure that we successfully complete a valid run and, at the same time, aim for a strong placement in the Shell Eco-marathon competition. We’re also hoping to grow our team and gain more support from sponsors to help us continue pushing the limits of engineering and sustainability. With the lessons we’ve learned from this year’s experience, we’re confident that Siklab Rizal will come back stronger and more prepared for future challenges.”
Q: What do you think will be the biggest challenge for you as the next manager of Siklab Rizal?
Charlie Causo: “The challenge for me as the next manager of Siklab Rizal is making sure that we continue improving while maintaining the strong foundation built by our team. We won’t be making major changes to the car, but we will focus on minor adjustments, especially in how we measure data and improve our motor efficiency. One key improvement we’re aiming for is developing a new and improved motor control system. The one we used this year has already been in use for two years, so for the next competition, we plan to design and build our own. This will help optimize performance and give us a better chance at competing at a higher level.”
Q: Since most of you are graduating students, is Siklab now open for recruitment? If so, do you have a specific month and day in mind so that those who are interested in joining will know when to apply?
Tim Harold Faisan: “As of now, Siklab Rizal is not yet open for recruitment since the project itself is still the thesis of the 4th-year ECE students and will continue as the thesis of the incoming 4th-year ECE students. However, there is a possibility of recruitment in the future for those who are willing to join Siklab Rizal. Since Siklab Rizal is still a relatively new project, it is primarily handled by 4th-year ECE students. But if recruitment does take place (hopefully it will), it may start as early as August or September. If you’re interested in becoming a part of Siklab Rizal, you must be committed, prepared, and proactive in all the tasks assigned to you.”
The Siklab Rizal team’s experience during the Shell Eco-marathon Asia 2025 was not just a competition; it was a learning experience that tested their resilience, teamwork, and innovation. From overcoming technical challenges to forming meaningful connections with teams from around the world, the competition provided them with valuable lessons that will guide their future in engineering.
As they prepare for the next chapter, with new leadership and continued improvements in design and efficiency, Siklab Rizal remains committed to pushing the boundaries of engineering and sustainability. Their journey is a testament to the dedication and ingenuity of Filipino engineers, proving that with passion, perseverance, and teamwork, they can compete and succeed on the global stage.
– All photos credited to Siklab Rizal.
Chynna A. Tamayo
Writer, Rizalian Student Focus