In a triumph of microbial mastery, eight dedicated microbiologists are stepping boldly into the next round, propelling their passion for tiny worlds to new heights in the pursuit of scientific excellence!
The College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics again proved their wits as eight (8) microbiology students strides their way to the Finals as they have conquered the Elimination round of Philippine Microbiology Olympiad that took place virtually last November 9-10, 2023, during the 28th annual convention of Philippine society for Microbiology Mindanao. With the theme, “Il’mo: Celebrating the culture of excellence in Microbiology”, Eunace Olaver, Jay-Ann Rabe, Xyrelle Deanne Formento, Adrianne Abiso, Ela Mae Jetigan, Nice Samonte, Mario Aniano Yajj Bantilan, and John Christian Pio are set to take on the final round, as they've secured a spot in the Top 10.
Philippine Microbiology Olympiad (PHILMO) is an inter-school competition open for all college students in the whole Philippines, especially those who engage themselves in Biology and Microbiology. Hosted by Philippine Society for Microbiology Mindanao during its 28th year of annual convention, this competition is a first in its history. Among all the contenders, Team 1, comprising Eunace Olaver, Jay-Ann Rabe, and Xyrelle Deanne Formento, secured the 2nd place while Team 2 composed of Adrianne Abiso, Ela Mae Jetigan, and Nice Samonte placed 6th in the team quiz category. Moreover, Mario Aniano Yajj Bantilan, and John Christian Pio secured the 2nd and 10th spot in the individual quiz category. Thus, proudly elevating the name of Mindanao State University - General Santos City as one of the top-performing universities during the event.
Facing Giants
“To tell you honestly, we were intimidated by the prestigious schools who also joined the competition. Pero Dr. Rallos always reminded us to just enjoy and always keep in mind that joining and becoming part of the competition is already a feat.” Eunace Olaver, a fourth year Biology student who is currently majoring in Microbiology expressed in an interview.
Competing with high-caliber universities like University of the Philippines - Mindanao (UPmin), Notre Dame of Marbel University (NDMU), Cotabato State University (CSU), Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP), Southwestern University PHINMA, MSU-IIT, MSU-Marawi and others that participated in the event was indeed nerve wracking. However, Eunace together with her team and batchmates held on and enjoyed the convention as it was also a way for them to acquire new knowledge, improve their skills and build connections with other aspiring and inspiring microbiologists.
Giving their all, they carried the name of Mindanao State University - General Santos City behind their backs as they cultivate their goals for the event.
Gearing towards Finals
“We are really happy to bring honor to MSU-Gensan. All we wanted and prayed for was to enter the top 10 and become part of the final round. With our performance, we really hope we made the Science Department and the University proud.” Eunace Olaver added.
Despite their busy schedules, considering they are all graduating students with affiliations with the department and college organizations, preparing for the competition challenged their time management skills. With the help of their coach, Dr. Lynn Rallos, they were able to acquire reading materials and cultivate various techniques to prepare for the competition.
However, as the adage goes, Biology students are like extremophiles who can still manage to thrive despite the extreme circumstances. Although not by choice, this truth holds as they secure their way into the finals and aim to prove it once again as they prepare for the upcoming competition on November 22, 2023, at DOST XII Halal Science and Technology Laboratory.
Through new Heights
“Make every opportunity a learning opportunity.” A mantra echoed by Eunace Olaver from their mentor, Dr. Lynn Rallos.
A constant reminder that is etched in their hearts, urging them to transform each opportunity as a learning experience. With an open mind and thirst for knowledge, The dedicated Biology students of Mindanao State University - General Santos City prepare to dominate the final round of the Philippine Microbiology Olympiad 2023.
Armed with wisdom and passion, they stride forward, ready to colonize the competition charts once more. Etched within the drive to put their university's name to the pinnacle of success, and marking a triumphant chapter to their pursuit of scientific greatness.
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