Philippine Robotics scholars trip to Estonia!

Three Students:

1. Rose Mary (RM, "The Researcher")
2. Harriette ("The Builder"), and
3. Jose Rene (JR; "The Programmer"; not in photo).

From top academic performers of Itaas Elementary School to Grade 8 Scholars of the Brother Rafael Donato Night High School at De La Salle Zobel. They are part of the Robotics Club, which was started last year through a generous donation of Ms. Genevieve A. Pillar (Robotics Coordinator). They are guided by Ms. Evelyn Agcaoili (Principal) and Ms. Juliana Valencia (Teacher / Coach).

In the past year alone, they championed two local VEX competitions and even competed for the World Robotics Olympiad in Costa Rica. This year, it will be Harriette, RM and JR's first time to compete internationally. They will be 1 out of 103 teams, representing the Philippines in the First Lego League in Estonia this June 4 - 10,2018. (https://www.firstlegoleague.ee/open2018/)

The competition challenges teams to think of solutions to various problems in hydrodynamics. The coordinators provide the teams with a mat (seen in photo below), where teams must innovate (using robots and LEGO) to filter, transport, and re-purpose water.

With their backgrounds, these kids may only encounter opportunities like this once in a lifetime. RM wants to pursue STEM in High School while Harriette has her eyes on MIT or Harvard. This competition, could be one step closer to their dreams.

They have done everything to get to this competition - visas, paperwork, and the HARD WORK on their prototypes. They have one week to get over one last hurdle - funding. Even in a 2-star hotel and downsizing their prototype, their expenses (flight, accommodation, registration, and meals) are still expected to be P100,000 per child. The team has already raised P100,000 through the tireless efforts of their coach, Ms. Julie Valencia.

As an alumni of DLSZ, an advocate of education, and one who wants to break the walls of "privilege" to reach success, I'm appealing to everyone - whether you have P100 or P1000 - to help these great kids! I know it's a big amount to raise in just a few days but any amount we can give, will be a big help for the team.

If you'd prefer to donate cash or through BPI Online transfer, please email me at [email protected]. Thank you!