By Niña Christelle Sumintac, StratCom Correspondent

A team from Mariano Marcos State University’s Laboratory High School (LHS) at Laoag Campus claimed the 1st runner-up title in the EDUtech Asia 2024 Planet Protectors Sustainability Challenge, held November 6-7 at Singapore's Sands Expo and Convention Centre.

The EDUtech Asia 2024 Planet Protectors Sustainability Challenge, in its inaugural year and sponsored by Google for Education, highlights the role of student-led innovations in addressing environmental issues. Competing against schools from around the world, the MMSU-LHS team presented their GBean App, an all-in-one platform designed to tackle waste management challenges by engaging individuals and communities alike. Their innovation was rigorously evaluated in multiple rounds before they showcased it in person at the event.

The team consisted of Grade 10 students Adrian Jed V. Cacao, Rvee Anne Vanessa G. Cid, and Ynnah Therese S. Salenda, as well as Grade 9 students Ava Laureen Graciela M. Quillope and Zhanaerelle Jae M. Agcaoili. Together, they impressed judges with the GBean app's sustainable solutions for pressing global issues in waste management.

The students were guided by Coach Ms. Jean A. Arellano and supported by MMSU-LHS Principal Prof. Philistia Mercuria Bagayas, along with Mr. Al Cameron G. Avila, student affairs and services coordinator.  

Expressing his pride, CTE Dean Aris Reynold Cajigal, said, “I extend my heartfelt congratulations to our high school students for this significant accomplishment. Their success reflects the quality of education at our Laboratory Schools and demonstrates exceptional critical thinking and problem-solving skills in addressing real-world issues.”

This success serves as an inspiring reminder of the power of youth to create meaningful environmental change.