Team Philippines' Gelraycs Jules Fornan, Jacob Emmanuel Sadorra, Ogden Michael Javier and Rex Alphonse Reventar (2nd to 5th from left) with their mentors at the 56th International Chemistry Olympiad in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (DOST photo)
MANILA – As the Philippines celebrated the twin triumphs of gymnast Carlos Yulo and the rest of the Filipino athletes in the Paris Olympics, the nation also made headlines in the field of science.
At the 56th International Chemistry Olympiad (IChO) held at King Saudi University in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on July 21 to 30, the Philippine team secured two bronze medals and two honorable mentions.
Bagging bronze medals were Gelraycs Jules Fornan of Philippine Science High School (PSHS) Soccsksargen Region, coached by Jomarie Enerio; and Rex Alphonse Reventar of PSHS Main-Quezon City, coached by Mara Milagros Esguerra.
Fornan was also a bronze medalist at the 55th edition held in Zurich, Switzerland.
"Our proudest congratulations to Gelraycs Jules Fornan. Sox is beaming with pride for you, Jules!" posted the Integrated Chemists of the Philippines-Region 12 on Facebook.
Honorable mentions went to Ogden Michael Javier of PSHS Main, also coached by Esguerra; and Jacob Emmanuel Sadorra, PSHS Central Luzon, coached by Princess Ann Digneneng.
Head mentor Dr. Raymond Malabed of De La Salle University and mentor Dr. Ian Ken Dimzon of Ateneo de Manila University led the Philippines in the competition featuring the brightest young chemists from 88 nations.
"We extend our deepest gratitude to all the organizations, coaches, mentors, families, friends and individuals who supported the Philippine delegation in the International Chemistry Olympiad. Your unwavering support and encouragement have been instrumental in their success," Department of Science and Technology Secretary Dr. Renato Solidum Jr. said in a statement. (PR/PNA)
