The Gokongwei Brothers Foundation (GBF) continued its support for young Filipino scientists as it backed the 20th National Science and Technology Fair (NSTF), held in partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd) from March 10 to 13 at the Great Eastern Hotel in Quezon City.
Since 2018, GBF has worked with DepEd to help strengthen the NSTF’s role in promoting scientific excellence, innovation, and problem-solving skills among Filipino youth. Its support has grown through the years, from producing short science documentaries on winning student projects to helping provide digital platforms during the pandemic and supporting student participation in global competitions such as the International Science and Engineering Fair.
A key part of this support is the GBF Young Scientist Awards (YSA), which provides four-year STEM college scholarships to selected NSTF winners. Each year, GBF recognizes students behind the fair’s top eight projects, awarding them scholarships, cash awards, and medals to help encourage their continued pursuit of STEM.
This year’s awardees came from Quezon City Science High School in the National Capital Region; Alaminos City National High School in Region I; Lal-lo National High School in Region II; Angeles City Science High School in Region III; Bansud National High School in MIMAROPA; Sumaliring High School in the Negros Island Region; Labangal National High School in Region XII; and Baybay City Senior High School in Region VIII.
“Innovation begins with curiosity and the courage to keep going despite challenges,” said Grace Colet, Executive Director of GBF, in her opening message to the delegates, drawing inspiration from the legacy of John Gokongwei Jr. “The ideas these young scientists are developing today have the potential to create meaningful solutions for their communities and help shape the future of our country.”
To mark the NSTF’s 20th run, GBF also shared short science documentaries it produced from previous NSTF winners. The videos were reposted on GBF and DepEd’s social media pages under the hashtag #StudentsforScience, helping bring more attention to science-based community solutions developed by student researchers.
Through its continued partnership with DepEd, GBF aims to help inspire and empower the next generation of Filipino scientists and innovators, supporting young learners as they turn curiosity, creativity, and research into ideas that can serve their communities and the country.
For more information on the Gokongwei Brothers Foundation, visit gokongweibrothersfoundation.org
