A student innovation from Saint Mary’s University took the spotlight at this year’s 23rd National Civil Engineering Students Summit (NCESS), held at SMX Aura in Taguig City. The featured project: a Mobile FlyOver Bridge (MFOB) — a smart, retractable structure designed to ease traffic congestion during road construction.

Representing the university were BS Civil Engineering students Brandon B. Dasalla, Corvin Owen B. Motilla, Michael James Benedict V. Paluyo, and Francis Ira A. Valdez, under the mentorship of Engr. Christopher John P. De Vera, RCE.

Organized annually, the NCESS gathers student researchers and future engineers from top universities across the country. The 2025 summit featured groundbreaking student-led projects aimed at solving real-world infrastructure problems — and the MFOB stood out for its practical application and structural ingenuity.

Built from Aluminum Alloy and A36 steel, the Mobile FlyOver Bridge is capable of supporting vehicles up to 76.14 tons, offering a temporary but robust solution for maintaining road access during construction.

The team’s work drew attention for its:

• Scissor-type retractable design
• Quick assembly and mobility
• Engineering simulations using STAAD Pro and ANSYS

The MFOB was first presented during Saint Mary’s University’s Linggo ng Likha at Lingkod on April 28, 2025, and its growing acclaim continues. It is also set to be published in the Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers (PICE) Midyear Convention Technical Journal — a platform that celebrates technical excellence among Filipino engineers.

The students’ participation in NCESS marks a significant milestone not only for their academic careers but also for the university’s commitment to developing socially responsive engineering solutions.

As they graduate, the team brings with them a tested concept ready for real-world implementation — a testament to how local innovation can contribute to national development.

Written by: Engr. Christopher John De Vera, Faculty SEAIT