Two students from Palawan who have been supported through a Nickel Asia–linked education program earned medals at the 2026 International Math Challenge (IMC) – Global Round held in Bangkok, Thailand.
Kian Klyde S. Cacananta, a Grade 4 student, won a silver medal, while Kristina Margaux T. Taleon, a Grade 6 student, earned a bronze medal at the competition hosted at Chulalongkorn University. Both students attend Leonides S. Virata Memorial School (LSVMS) in Bataraza, Palawan.
The two competed against 289 finalists from different countries. They qualified for the global round after placing within the top 45 percent of 12,960 participants from 117 countries in the online qualifying round.
LSVMS is operated by RTN Foundation, Inc., the social development arm of Rio Tuba Nickel Mining Corporation, a subsidiary of Nickel Asia Corporation, with co-funding support from Coral Bay Nickel Corporation.
The school has consistently joined international academic competitions, including a Merit Award finish at the Southeast Asian Mathematical Olympiad (SEAMO X) in Bali, Indonesia.
LSVMS Principal Marilou Madalogdog said the achievement reflected collective effort. “This success is the result of the combined support of the school, parents, donors, and the determination of our students,” she said.
Now in its 15th year, the International Math Challenge brings together top-performing students from around the world to compete in mathematics.
How can sustained education support help more students from rural communities gain access to global academic opportunities?
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