A Filipino student from a Catholic school in Oriental Mindoro has brought pride to the Philippines after winning the highest honor in a prestigious international science competition held in the United States.
Warren Wade Casuga, a native of Calapan City and a student of Holy Infant Academy (HIA), was named Absolute Winner—the overall first-place award—in the Natural Science category of the 7th Copernicus Olympiad, held in Houston, Texas, from January 21 to 25, 2026. He also received a Gold Award in the competition. The awarding ceremony took place on 26 Jan.
Regarded as one of the most demanding and prestigious science olympiads in the United States, the Copernicus Olympiad brings together outstanding young scientists from around the world. Casuga outperformed competitors from 16 countries, including the United States, Brazil, Vietnam, China, Taiwan, Azerbaijan, Bolivia, Indonesia, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Pakistan, Mexico, Mongolia, Peru, Romania, and Turkey.
Casuga’s achievement underscores the academic excellence and global competitiveness of Filipino students, particularly those educated in faith-based institutions that promote both intellectual rigor and character formation.
Founded in 1937 by the Holy Spirit Sisters, Holy Infant Academy was established to support the evangelizing mission of the local Church. In 1997, ownership of the school was transferred to the Apostolic Vicariate of Calapan, with its management entrusted to a team of lay administrators in the spirit of lay empowerment.
Holy Infant Academy remains committed to the holistic formation of its students, according to principal Alona Cueto. She emphasized that the school places equal importance on academic excellence and character formation, both in school and at home, while working closely with parents to ensure shared values and goals. Cueto added that the achievements of students are rooted in the inspiration and strong support of the entire school community and their families.
Educators and supporters say Casuga’s success is a testament to years of discipline, perseverance, and faith-filled education—serving as an inspiration to young Filipinos aspiring to excel and serve on the global stage.
