Ilocos Norte: The operator of a solar project in Ilocos Norte is donating PHP300,000 to 'mathletes' from Sarrat National High School following their triumphant participation in the 2024 World International Mathematical Olympiad in Shenzhen, China on Jan. 3 to 6.

According to Philippines News Agency, Provincial board member Saul Paulo Lazo, chairperson of the committee on education, said Tuesday that draft Provincial Resolution No. 2025-01-402 has been approved, authorizing Governor Matthew Joseph Manotoc to accept the donation from Mirae Asia Energy Corporation. The company currently operates the largest solar project in the province, located in Barangay Paguludan-Salindeg in Currimao, covering around 24 hectares of forestland.

"The amount is a voluntary donation in support of the projects and programs of the Ilocos Norte government, such as helping send the mathematicians to the Math Olympiad," Lazo stated. Ma. Cassandra Reich Doque and Allen Iver Barroga bagged two gold medals and four exemplary commendations at the China Math Olympiad, Zyrene Angelica Dulluog secured a silver, Nathalie Margaret Balisacan and Brian Jansen Vallejo each earned a bronze, and Jushiem Barroga was a merit awardee.

They are now preparing for the Thailand International Math Olympiad in Chiang Mai from Feb. 21 to 24. One of the coaches, Michael Malvar, mentioned that the students will participate in another international competition in New York in July. "We are so thankful for the generous support of both public and private individuals who continue to believe in us," Malvar expressed to the Philippine News Agency.

Other public and private entities are also contributing to further inspire exemplary individuals through the Sirib Awards program of the provincial government.