In a time where we face severe flooding, water insecurity, and environmental degradation, response has to be more urgent than ever. In line with this, a new generation of licensed sanitary engineers from Mapúa University is stepping up. They are ready to deliver practical and sustainable solutions for the nation. Once again, Mapúa has proven its leadership in engineering education.
The university secured 8 out of the top 10 spots in the August 2026 Sanitary Engineers Licensure Examination (SELE). Furthermore, Mapúa emerged as the #1 Top Performing School with an outstanding 96% passing rate.
Mapúa Dominates National Sanitary Engineering Boards
To begin with, Engr. Laurence Jazzel U. Mendoza led the nation’s board passers in 1st Place. Right behind him, Engr. Marc Zendrijk V. Pasumbal earned 2nd Place. Notably, this is a back-to-back triumph for Pasumbal, who previously placed 1st in the March 2026 Civil Engineers Licensure Examination. Meanwhile, Engr. Alexis Marcus Miguel J. Luna secured 3rd Place.
In addition, Mapúa’s roster of topnotchers includes:
- Engr. Joshua Vergil V. Mandigma (5th Place)
- Engr. Justine Lar G. Onda (6th Place)
- Engr. Eduard Jong T. Cortes (7th Place)
- Engr. Marc Junifiel A. Malabar (8th Place)
- Engr. Sarah Jessica O. Gonzales (10th Place)
Celebrating this huge achievement, Mapúa University President and CEO Dr. Dodjie S. Maestrecampo shared his pride:
We congratulate our new sanitary engineers not just for their academic triumph, but for their commitment to environmental stewardship,”
said Dr. Dodjie S. Maestrecampo, President and CEO of Mapúa University.
I believe they have a bright future in tackling public health and environmental issues that demonstrate the true Mapúan spirit of engineering for the public good.”
Driving Sustainable Impact
Furthermore, Mapúa offers its B.S. Environmental and Sanitary Engineering program in collaboration with Arizona State University (ASU)—ranked #1 in Innovation in the U.S. This program empowers graduates to safeguard public health, planetary health, and sustainability. Mindful of the country’s climate vulnerability, the topnotchers shared how they intend to create a lasting national impact.
For instance, Engr. Mendoza sees a deep purpose in his field:
The usual answer is ‘I want to change the world’ but right now, the goal is to not worsen things. If there is a way to improve the situation and contribute to sustainable development, especially to less developed areas like Palawan, as much as I can then I would do so.”
Meanwhile, Engr. Pasumbal highlights the balance between construction and environmental care:
Sa Civil [Engineering], we work on building structures so sometimes it impacts the environment. With Environmental and Sanitary Engineering, it balances things out because it’s about [protecting natural resources].”
Similarly, Engr. Luna believes this milestone gives him a stronger platform to advocate for real solutions:
If you are one of the best, people tend to listen to you more… Gusto kong maging highly capable, enough to solve real, pressing issues in the field of sanitary engineering.”
Likewise, Engr. Mandigma reflected on his core responsibility, expressing his hope to fulfill the purpose of sanitary engineers in protecting public health and the environment during these challenging times. On the other hand, Engr. Onda aims to foster sustainability awareness nationwide, noting his desire to actively contribute to the country’s movement toward sustainable development.
Moreover, Engr. Cortes highlighted how civil and sanitary engineering complement each other. He explained that while civil engineers build the physical world, sanitary engineers ensure it remains a livable place. This perspective aligns with Engr. Malabar’s emphasis on their professional oath to serve the public and leave the world better than they found it.
Finally, Engr. Gonzales hopes to focus on research to assist engineers in the field who translate engineering principles into practice. She expressed her hope that all recent board passers and topnotchers will fulfill their vital roles in serving both present and future generations.
Preparing the Next Generation for A.Y. 2027-2028
Consequently, Mapúa University continues to open doors for aspiring builders and innovators. The university is widely recognized as the #1 engineering and technological school in the Philippines. Officially, applications for Academic Year 2027-2028 will open by the end of September 2026. Ultimately, future board topnotchers are invited to begin their academic journey at Mapúa. To apply or learn more about their globalized engineering programs, visit mapua.edu.ph.
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