CATBALOGAN CITY — Samar National School (SNS), a public school in Samar province, has reaffirmed its reputation in international research by winning multiple awards at Science Castle Asia 2025, showcasing student-researchers’ ingenuity and scientific dedication.
The school, mentored by Dr. Ermilinda C. Floretes, research coordinator and team coach, received the Best in Oral Presentation award for the study “Protocol Trash: A Sustainable Waste Segregation and Recycling System through Student-Led Behavioral Intervention.”
The research aimed to design, implement, and evaluate a waste segregation and recycling system to promote environmental awareness, discipline, and cleanliness among students.
“This is already our second time participating in Science Castle Asia,” shared Dr. Floretes. “Our preparations were quite challenging since students had to balance their academic requirements while completing their research.”
The Best Poster Award was also awarded to another SNS entry titled “Glocoscope,” which showcased a visually appealing presentation using images instead of lengthy text to communicate research methodology and results effectively.
SNS earned a total of two gold, two silver, and 15 bronze medals at the event’s Top 10 Research Awards, strengthening its reputation as one of the leading schools in science and innovation in Eastern Visayas.
The school’s participation was made possible by strong support from various partners. The Samar provincial government, under Governor Sharee Ann Tan, provided ₱200,000 in financial assistance, while Catbalogan City Mayor Dexter Uy offered ₱5,000 per participant.
The Department of Education (DepEd) Catbalogan City Division, led by Dr. Carmela R. Tamayo, approved and supported the school’s international participation. She also expressed gratitude to the school administration and parents for their support.
“This achievement shows that Samar National School is not only excelling locally but also internationally. Our mantra remains — ‘Galing at Husay, Tatak Samar High,’” Dr. Floretes said proudly.
Following their success, SNS is now preparing for the Science Castle World Event in Tokyo, Japan, scheduled for December 13, 2025, where the organizers from Focus Systems have personally invited the ‘Best in Oral Presentation’ team.
“To maintain our momentum, we’ll train our student presenter, polish the presentation, and incorporate the evaluators’ suggestions,” added Dr. Floretes. (By Aaron A. Cotejar, PIA Samar)
