Mateo Iñigo Espocia (Photo courtesy from http://HTTPS://AMSLIPHIL.COM/)

A Filipino student demonstrated exceptional talent in mathematics by achieving a remarkable feat at the 11th World Mathematics Invitational (WMI) held at Yonsei University, South Korea, from July 14 to 18, 2023. Mateo Iñigo Espocia, a sixth-grader from Genesis Christian Academy in San Jose del Monte, Bulacan, emerged as the top performer among participants, earning him the prestigious Star of the World trophy.

The event brought together 139 Filipino students from 16 different public and private schools across the Philippines. Mateo’s outstanding performance in the written mathematics competition not only secured him the Star of the World award but also earned him one of the highly coveted diamond awards, given to only four participants during the tournament.

Joining Mateo in the roster of distinguished awardees were two other exceptional students. Andrew Cabigon, a Grade 7 student from Sacred Heart School-Ateneo de Cebu, and Dean Alistair Yu, a Grade 12 student from Makati Hope Christian School, both received the prestigious Legend award for their outstanding achievements for three consecutive years.

In total, the Philippine delegation, under the guidance of the Asian MathSci League Inc. (Amsli), achieved an impressive haul of awards at the event. They secured two Legend awards, four Diamond awards, 14 Gold awards, 32 Silver awards, 48 Bronze awards, and 41 Merit awards in the written competitions. Additionally, Chynna Lorin Co from Makati Hope Christian School won a Silver award in the WMI Mini-Math Creative Competition.

Despite the challenging nature of the exams, Amsli President Rechilda Villame expressed her satisfaction with the students’ performance. She acknowledged that the level of difficulty posed a concern initially, but the students’ preparation and dedication prevailed. Villame explained that while the competition was tough, the Filipino contestants rose to the occasion and excelled. She emphasized that the experience was valuable for the students, especially those participating in an international math contest for the first time.

Amsli’s commitment to preparing students from various schools across the country for such prestigious tournaments continues to nurture mathematical talents and foster academic excellence in the Philippines.

(Sourced online/AI/MNM)