A 10-year-old student from Oriental Mindoro brought pride to the Philippines by winning a gold medal at the 6th Copernicus Olympiad, held in Houston, Texas, from January 5 to 10.
John Mariñas, a Grade 5 student from Gloria, Oriental Mindoro, competed in the Natural Science category and emerged as the youngest gold medalist. He also secured 3rd place in Category 2 (Grade 5-6), outperforming older participants in the global competition.
The Copernicus Olympiad gathers young talents worldwide to test their knowledge in natural science, physics, astronomy, mathematics, and more. Despite feeling nervous during the event, John remained calm during the awarding ceremony.
“Sobrang unexpected po pero kalma lang po ako nung nasa awarding,” he was quoted as saying by ABS-CBN News.
John’s father, Dr. June Mariñas, admitted he did not expect his son to win gold, recalling the suspense as the winners were announced.
“Nung honorable mention, wala yung pangalan niya. Bronze, wala pa rin. Silver, wala pa rin. Tapos nakita namin nag-flash ‘yung name niya sa gold, nagsigawan na ‘yung Team Philippines,” he said.
John was part of a six-member Team Philippines delegation that bagged multiple awards in the competition. Other winners included Iwen Sabio Manabo (Silver Medal, Natural Science Category 5) and Rijan Felminia Acevedo (Gold Medal, Natural Science Category 4).
Known for his insatiable curiosity, John’s love for science began at an early age. His parents, both doctors, noticed his enthusiasm for science videos and experiments.
“Mahilig siyang magtanong sa mga nakikita niya, lalo na sa trabaho namin sa ospital,” his father added.
John balances his scientific pursuits with childhood interests like basketball. While his career path remains uncertain, he dreams of making a significant contribution to the field of science.
“Mas maganda na mag-level up siya habang tumatanda para maging man of science siya,” his father said.
