The Intel International Science Engineering Fair 2019, the world’s largest pre-college science competition is happening in Phoenix, Arizona, U.S.A. from May 12-17 and the Philippines is represented by 12 aspiring scientists.
Yes, through the support of Gokongwei Brothers Foundation (GBF), the family foundation of the leaders and founders of JG Summit Holdings, Inc., the 12 finalists of Department of Education’s 2019 National Science & Technology Fair will showcase their researches on the international stage.
Before the 12 students departed last May 11, they received the first Gokongwei Brothers
Young Scientist Award in a simple send-off ceremony held at The Legend Villas, Mandaluyong City last Friday.
Aside from the all expense paid trip to the U.S.A. for the ISEF 2019, GBF also gave the 12 students scholarships to help them pursue a degree in Science, Technology, Mathematics, or Engineering at their dream universities in the future.
“It is our privilege to be a part of the journey of these amazing researchers. Learning about their story and their aspirations, it is inspiring to know that their youth is not a stumbling block, but actually an enabler to really do what they want to do for their communities. They are a testament to the Filipino youth’s exceptional ingenuity and potential in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM),” said Grace Colet, Gokongwei Brothers Foundation executive director.
The awardees include:
– John Eric Aggarao, Kathleen Chloie Antonio and Anna Beatriz Suavengco of Taguig Science High School. They studied the possible organic solution to brown eye spot disease attacking Kapeng Barako plants.
– Maria Isabel Layson of Iloilo National High School presented the antidiabetic properties of aratiles and how it can help produce dietary supplements.
– Nathaniel Reyes of Quezon National High School, demonstrated how cornstalk biochar composite can treat algae infestation in lakes and fish ponds.
– Neil David Cayanan, Shaira Gozun, and E’van Relle Tongol of Angeles City Science High School was also a game-changer with their proposed eco-friendly alternative to acoustic panels.
– Maryjoise Karla Buan of Pangasinan National High School, invented a device that can detect illegal logging activities in forest areas.
– Alpha Acain, Lester Sabadao, and Lia Denise Tan of Cagayan National High School designed a prototype that can assist farmers in drying and storing their rice harvests.
The 12 aspiring scientists as well as their parents are surprised and cannot contain their happiness and gratitude to the Gokongwei Brothers.
We all hope they bring home the bacon! Good luck, kids!
Did you know that Gokongwei Brothers Foundation offers scholarships to deserving youth? As of December 2018, they have produced 500 graduates.
With advancing STEM as its core thrust, GBF is guided by its mission of building the future through education. For the past 25 years, GBF has built quality learning facilities, granted scholarships to deserving youth, supported academic institutions through endowments and donations, and created synergies geared toward promoting STEM and uplifting the Filipino.