SLSU BSME Surges Back in MELE 2026: DME Honors New License Holders

The Department of Mechanical Engineering, together with the Pambansang Samahan ng Inhinyero Mekanikal (PSIM) – SLSU Student Unit, proudly hosted a double celebration honoring its newly registered mechanical engineers who passed the August 2025 and February 2026 Mechanical Engineering Licensure Examination (MELE). The event was held on March 24, 2026, at the SLSU Mini Theater.

The celebration formally began with a motorcade along the Sogod–Bontoc route, followed by the main recognition program. A total of 17 new mechanical engineers were recognized for their success in the national board examination.

One of the highlights of the event was the sharing of stories filled with hope, struggles, dedication, and perseverance. These journeys reflect the determination of the passers in earning their title and serve as inspiration for aspiring engineers to continue dreaming big despite adversity and hardships.

This celebration also marks a significant milestone in the department’s board examination performance. Southern Leyte State University (SLSU) recorded a 52.00% overall passing rate in the February 2026 MELE, surpassing the national passing rate for the same examination cycle. This is a remarkable improvement compared to the previous cycle, where the Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BSME) program posted a 19.05% passing rate. The increase from 19.05% to 52.00% reflects a substantial improvement in overall outcomes.

Faculty members of the Department of Mechanical Engineering, spearheaded by Engr. Rey Joseph C. Capilitan, Program Chair, and Engr. Melvin G. Obus, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, challenged the new license holders to uphold honesty in their profession. Amidst the profusion of scandals revolving around fraud and ghost projects, they urged the new engineers to break these fraudulent activities and rise with integrity. They reminded the fresh engineers and engineering students that the essence of their field is not money but progress and prosperity.