Best of the Philippines Pinoy Success Filipino high school students shine at 2008 International Junior Science Olympiad
| Filipino high school students shine at 2008 International Junior Science Olympiad |
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The Philippine representatives to the recently concluded International Junior Science Olympiad (IJSO) held in Changwon, South Korea (from December 6 to 15, 2008), won 3 silver and 3 bronze medals. All of the Philippines' 6 participants won medals while the host country South Korea garnered most of the golds.
The IJSO is an annual individual and team competition in the natural sciences for 15-year-old students. IJSO has been established in recognition of the significance of the natural sciences in the general education of young future scientists and is a purely educational event. IJSO was established to enhance and develop international contacts in the natural sciences and to promote future collaboration while encouraging the formation of friendships within the scientific community. At the same time the IJSO offers the opportunity to compare the syllabi and educational trends in science education among the participating countries. There were 533 delegates representing the best of 44 countries who participated in the 2008 IJSO at Korea. The Filipino participants gave a splendid showing considering that they did not have ample preparation nor the budgetary support for the competition. Dr. Helen Caintic, executive-director of Philippine Science High School, accompanied her students to the prestigious competition. “This is a proud moment for all Filipinos. Once again, we have shown what Filipinos are made of,“ she stated.Benjamin Francis P. Rodriguez, Jr., a 3rd year student from the Philippine Science High School, top-scored for the Philippine contingent. Benjamin Jr. reported that the experience was an eye-opener and a wonderful activity where the best brains from different parts of the world bonded to establish international understanding from varying cultures. “We salute the Korean organizers for the successful 2008 IJSO. They were thorough, hospitable, accommodating and high-tech. They showcased Korea’s best." he added. Tram Acuna, a Philippine Science High senior student and a veteran competitor in international contests, bagged the second highest honor for the Philippine team. William Tan, another graduating Pisay student, also won a silver. Other members of the team were bronze medalists Guia Pullido, Cara Evangelista and Ralph Ugalino. Prof. Edwin de Ocampo accompanied the group as the scholastic adviser.Dr. Caintic explained that the IJSO aims to promote and reward the pursuit of excellence in scientific endeavor. By competing in events outside of the country's geographic boundaries, gifted Filipino students are challenged to develop their talents. Above all, the event encourages stronger interest in the study of the natural sciences among high school students while creating friendly relationships among future scientists around the world. |
