TAGUM CITY, Davao del Norte — The City Government of Tagum celebrated a remarkable collection of young achievers at City Hall on August 10, 2026, recognizing their triumphs on international and national stages. The ceremony honored a math champion, a creative writing star, and a 10‑member taekwondo squad that brought home medals from South Korea.
A Math Mind That Conquers Asia
JoanaMarie Candice R. Senillo of Magugpo Pilot Imelda Elementary School–SPED Center collected golds at both the Philippine and Hong Kong International Mathematical Olympiads in 2026. She also captured the top prize at the International English Masterclass Olympiad, demonstrating rare cross‑disciplinary brilliance. Her bronze finish at the Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macao Greater Bay Area Finals earlier this year placed her among just 28 global medalists in her grade category.
Competing against over 1,000 participants from countries such as Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam, the fourth‑grader proved that young Filipino minds can shine on the world’s toughest academic platforms. Her string of victories has inspired her school and community to invest even more in gifted learners. The city’s recognition reflects a deep pride in her quiet but powerful accomplishments.
Young Storyteller Earns National Praise
Mary Amantha Yxabelle S. Jusa of St. Thomas More Montessori School claimed second place in the Young Creatives Challenge Season 3 Short Story Writing Category. The elementary edition’s grand finale, held in Taguig City last July 17, gathered the country’s most promising young literary talents under the Malikhaing Pinoy initiative.
Her achievement highlights the growing creative writing movement among Filipino youth and the importance of nurturing the arts alongside traditional academics. Jusa’s story captivated judges with its originality and emotional depth, setting a high bar for future participants. The recognition sends a signal to other young writers that their voices matter and can earn national acclaim.
Taekwondo Team Strikes Gold in South Korea
The Striker’s Taekwondo Club, representing the Philippines at the 19th World Taekwondo Culture Expo in Muju, South Korea, returned with an extraordinary haul of medals. Bhelmar M. Balais, Jewelle Raime C. Basalan, Zeo Leopardas, Rheos Clark F. Ampatin, Pauleen Jozzie S. Lagunzad, and Shun Juan each earned gold in their respective kyorugi or poomsae events, while Prince Hamza Amerol Sharief secured silver and Nathan Kendrick Morte and May D. Moreno added bronzes. Maricon James Badua finished fourth, rounding out a complete team performance.
The expo, held from July 16 to 21, attracted over 4,000 athletes from across the world. Facing elite opponents, the Tagum contingent displayed exceptional technique, discipline, and sportsmanship. Their success underscores the city’s growing reputation as a breeding ground for martial arts excellence and the effectiveness of local grassroots sports programs.
A Community Behind Every Victory
City officials emphasized that behind every medal and award stands a network of parents, teachers, coaches, and schools. The local government praised their tireless support, which provided the foundation for these young achievers to excel. The recognition ceremony itself was a tribute to the collective effort that turns raw talent into world‑class performance.
The event also served as a rallying call for continued investment in youth development. Tagum’s leaders expressed hope that these stories would inspire more children to pursue their passions, knowing their city stands firmly behind them. The celebration reinforced the idea that a harmonious community thrives when it nurtures the potential of its youngest members.
