Many of the world’s distinguished scientists started their work at an early age. Inspired by their curiosity and passion for knowledge, they were able to pioneer some of the greatest inventions that have made an impact in the society.
Much like these scientists, many Filipino teens today are eager to bring change in local communities through science and technology. This year, three teams comprised of the brightest young minds in the country rose to the challenge to showcase their ingenuity at the annual Google Science Fair.
From hundreds of participants across the globe who submitted their research proposals, these nine students have been named regional finalists and are one step closer to representing the Philippines at the global finals.
Among those vying for a ticket to the finals round are Carlo Charles, Miguel Chavez, and Cj Ritualo. The three-man team is behind AquaLoop, a cheaper and more efficient data buoy designed to help marine and coastal researchers to obtain essential real-time sensor data for monitoring Philippine waters. This technology collects data through radio frequencies and uploads it immediately through WiFi connectivity, relieving researchers of the traditional work and data gathering process. “We worked on this project because we thought, expecting a change in our planet but not taking any action to help is completely pointless,” said the students from De La Salle University-Laguna.
Another winning research tackled the possibilities of a bridge becoming more than just a passage for vehicles. Representing Cebu City National Science High School, Ahsil Baroro, Dale Villarin, and Steve Watin took to Google Science Fair their findings on how a bridge can become an alternative source for energy by converting its movement to electricity. The team created a miniature bridge where they placed a marble in a cube-like device which has piezoelectric sensor. When the cube vibrates, the marble moves and the piezo transducer starts to generate electrical energy, resulting to an electricity-generating bridge.
“It is in our greatest honor that our thoughts and ideas are being acknowledged by Google! We started this project with the goal of making our world a more sustainable place to live in; we are excited to meet other people with great minds and with the same passion,” shared the team.
While the other two groups focused on technology, a trio from Batangas looked into the natural effects of mangroves in low saline environment. Melody Cortiñas, Shara Martinez, and Eugenio Magdales of Lemery Senior High School proposed a solution that can help preserve the home of many endemic species in Taal Lake and Pansipit River. By planting four different mangrove species in different setups, the team discovered how these shrubs can serve as natural wastewater filters and absorb pollutants. “We’re really surprised to have made it to the regional finals, as there are thousands of projects from all over the world,” the team shared.
On May 21, Google will announce the top 20 global finalists who will be flying to Google HQ in Mountain View, California for the last round where they will present their innovative ideas to a panel of judges.