Student wins regional quiz bee contests

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO -- A student from the Holy Angel University (HAU) bested other 26 contenders in the recently concluded regional finals of the National Quiz Bee.

Giemo Lee Ilagan, a third year accountancy student at the HAU, won the three-round regional competition that tackled on general information and international affairs.

Placing 1st and 2nd runner-up respectively were Michael John Alvaran of Baliuag University and Erlyn Pontalan of Colegio de San Gabriel Archangel.

The regional quiz bee was held at the conference hall of the Commission on Higher Education (Ched) Regional Office at the Diosdado Macapagal Government Center in Barangay Maimpis.

Ched Regional Director Dr. Virginia Akiate, in a message, has encouraged participating students to consider the competition a great and worthwhile experience.

"It is not whether you win or lose. You have to remember that experience, a priceless one, is the most precious thing you will get out of joining this competition," Akiate said.

She also appreciated the participation of schools and students from far areas in the region like Nueva Ecija and Zambales.

Ched records show that since the regional quiz bee began in the region way back in 1997, no one has yet won at the national competition.

Akiate said the Ched in Central Luzon is hopeful that Ilagan gets the most coveted championship award at the national level, which will be held in Tagaytay this March.

Now on its 31st year, the National Quiz Bee is conducted in line with the government's continuing objective of strengthening education by promoting academic excellence. (Charlene Cayabyab)