Dinagatnon wins gold at International Science Olympiad
By Renelle L. Escuadro
BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — Glaizel Mae S. Morados, a Grade 12 student of Don Ruben E. Ecleo Sr. Memorial National High School (DREESMNHS) in San Jose, Dinagat Islands, proudly brought home a gold medal from the International Science Olympiad Competition of Southeast Asia (ISOCSEA) in Osaka, Japan.
With brilliance, grit, and unwavering dedication, Morados, guided by Coach John Kenneth Villareal, gave pride to the Filipino people – an affirmation of the country’s inclusive quality education, and placed the Province of Dinagat Islands on the global map of academic excellence.
She thanked everyone who motivated her to join the accolade and inspired her to shine on the world stage. “I read the invitation online, and I was determined to join and represent my country, the Philippines, my beloved province in Dinagat Islands, and my alma mater, DREESMNHS.”
‘Our mantra was gold is the goal. And today, we say, goal achieved,” Morados said.
Coach Villareal also expressed gratitude to the government agencies for supporting the delegation’s travel, including Dinagat Islands Governor Nilo P. Demerey Jr., the provincial government board members, Congressional Rep. Kaka Bag-ao, and Schools Division Superintendent Florence E. Alamaden.
For the Schools Division Office of Dinagat Islands, this recognition marked a historic milestone as it sent its first-ever participant to an international competition who emerged victorious and showcased excellence, perseverance, and world-class talent.
“Your achievement is a powerful testament to discipline, brilliance, and the courage to dream beyond borders,” SDS Alamaden said. “You inspire our learners to aim higher, reach farther, and prove fearsome that excellence from the islands can shine on the world stage.”
Meanwhile, held on December 19, 2025, the ISOCSEA, organized by Global League of Winners (GLOW), Inc., is a science competition for primary (Grades 1-6) and secondary (Grades 7-12) students. It promotes science excellence and tourism across SEA countries like the Philippines, Singapore, and Malaysia, with competitions in biology, chemistry, physics, and earth/environmental sciences.
Also, the academic competition involves multiple rounds, with winners advancing to international finals, often hosted in various Southeast Asian nations. (RLE, PIA Dinagat Islands with a report from DepEd Dinagat Islands)
