Philippines bags 1st silver in 24th Asian-Pacific Math Olympiad

The APMO started in 1989 in hopes of discovering and challenging mathematically-gifted students in Pacific rim countries. It also nurtures partnerships between neighboring countries'students and mentors and offers an ideal setting for regional exchange of best practices and school syllabi on mathematics teaching. In the competition, students were exposed to five difficult questions and were given four hours to work on each question.

Each problem carried a maximum score of seven points.

The Philippines garnered a total of 97 points which ranked 20th out of the 37 participating countries. Once again, South Korea topped this year's APMO followed by USA, Thailand, Russia and Japan.

Brawner acknowledged that APMO, just like any other science and mathematics-focused competitions abroad, is indeed challenging and therefore requires intensive training and support from various
entities.

"This competition is really difficult and hence, for our students to win some medals is very commendable," Brawner said. "We hope that this inspires our future delegates to strive more in coming competitions."

The winners of the 24th APMO shall represent the country in the upcoming IMO in 14-16 July 2012 in Mar del Plata, Argentina. Morco and Co will be joined by Uy as contestants, while Dr. Julius Basilla and Dr. Job Noble will serve as Team and Deputy Team Leaders, respectively. The team will also be joined by Lao, a bronze medalist both in the APMO and IMO, as observer.

Finally, Brawner urged the winners to continue valuing their gifts in science and mathematics as they are sure to be key pieces to the country's future roster of science and technology professionals.

"We hope that our students consider this victory and experience as a whole as their calling to be future leaders in the field of science and mathematics," Brawner added. - sei.dost.gov.ph — ARA