In photo: L-R: Coach Angel O. Llabores, Coach Annie M. Gangoso, LSVMS student Kenji G. Millare, LSVMS
student Rhexia Xylazine C. Sumanoy, LSVMS student Kristina Margaux T. Taleon, Coach Madel Q.
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Students from a mining-host community in southern Palawan earned international recognition after three learners from Leonides S. Virata Memorial School (LSVMS) in Bataraza won Merit Awards at the Southeast Asian Mathematical Olympiad X (SEAMO X) Global Round 2026 in Bali, Indonesia.
Kenji G. Millare, Rhexia Xylazine C. Sumanoy, and Kristina Margaux T. Taleon represented the Philippines at the competition, which drew more than 1,500 students from 22 countries. Their participation followed strong performances in the SEAMO 2025 Online Round, where they advanced from a field of 150 schools nationwide and each secured bronze medals.
LSVMS is operated by RTN Foundation, Inc., the social development arm of Rio Tuba Nickel Mining Corporation (RTNMC), and is co-funded by Coral Bay Nickel Corporation. RTNMC operates in Bataraza, Palawan and is a subsidiary of listed natural resources firm Nickel Asia Corporation (NAC).
School officials said the achievement marks a significant milestone for a community-based school traditionally competing at the division and regional levels.
“As an administrator, I am deeply proud of this achievement. Our students have traditionally competed at the division and regional levels, so representing the Philippines internationally is a truly significant milestone. This is a source of pride for the entire LSVMS community,” said Principal Marilou A. Madalogdog.
Now in its 10th edition, SEAMO is known for non-routine problems that test logical reasoning, analytical thinking, and creativity. RTNMC’s support for the delegation highlights NAC’s education-focused social investments aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goal No. 4 on quality education.
What does this development signal for the role of mining companies in building local talent pipelines? Join the discussion.
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