Every year, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) recognizes young Filipinos who show promise in the STEM (Science & Technology, Engineering and Mathematics)  track through its Youth Excellence in Science (YES) program.

One of the recipients is Grade 11 student Ramon Jacob Caluag from San Beda University – Rizal campus.

For four consecutive years, he has been a YES awardee, with his latest recognition given at the Pilgrim Hall, University of Rizal System – Antipolo Campus (URSAC)  on March 15, 2024.

Jacob, as he was fondly called by family and friends, began representing the country in various international science competitions when he was in Grade 6.

For him, the best thing about competing is not just winning medals, but the opportunity to meet and befriend people from different cultures and backgrounds.

These competitions may take him anywhere in the world, but Jacob’s family has always been there to support him.

Jacob was among the 19 students who received YES medals and certificates as appreciation for their outstanding achievements in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) on a global scale. They were joined by their families, school delegates, and mentors who showed their unwavering support.

In addition to a strong support system, Jacob believes that persistence and confidence work wonders to kids like him.

“Perhaps what I want to tell my fellow kids is not to be afraid of things that seem too difficult for you. Before I started participating in science competitions, I was in Grade 4, and my science grades were quite low back then. In the following years, I started attending trainings until I reached the competitions and began winning medals. It’s all about persistence and confidence in yourself,”

Speaking about her son, Josephine Caluag holds immense pride in this opportunity. She emphasizes that every win her son achieves fills their family with pride.

However, she recalls a time when he initially participated in an international competition without bringing home any medals. Despite this setback, through Jacob’s diligence and perseverance, he gradually began to excel in subsequent competitions.

Josephine finds it especially gratifying that alongside his achievements in competitions, he also maintains a scholarship at San Beda and actively engages as a student leader. She views his ability to balance these various aspects of his life as a testament to his character and determination.

Josephine stands by her belief that parents should support their children’s interests.

She added: “Just support your kids’ interests. It’s important that the child is interested and not forced. So, if they’re interested, they will work hard and excel.”

Fernando Ablaza, Director of PSTO – Rizal, took the lead in the YES Awarding Ceremony for Rizal province. 

In a message, Ablaza thanked the parents for supporting and cultivating the interests of young individuals in Science and Technology. Additionally, he urged students to consider opportunities like the DOST-Science Education Institute (SEI) Undergraduate and junior-level scholarships, emphasizing how these programs can help them realize their goals and advance their knowledge in Science, Mathematics, and Robotics, ultimately enhancing the nation's prestige.

The 2023 YES Awards exemplify DOST's steadfast commitment to recognizing the scientific and mathematical excellence of young individuals, ensuring their passion for STEM fields continues to flourish.

STEM, which stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, represents the educational pathway that prepares students for careers or further education in these fields. It emphasizes hands-on learning and a curriculum that fosters problem-solving and critical thinking skills.

Bestowed by the DOST Science Education Institute (SEI), the Youth Excellence in Science (YES) Award is given to outstanding elementary and high school students who have secured gold, silver, and bronze medals in international science and mathematics competitions in the year leading-up to the award ceremony. 

To date, there are 2,114 YES Award recipients nationwide, with 1,012 hailing from the National Capital Region. It is followed by the Calabarzon region with 203 awardees. (MBIL/PIA-Rizal)