Teen's bid for int'l science prize could revive broken labs in Pampanga

A student's quest for international acclaim in science communication could lead to much-needed upgrades for science facilities in Pampanga.

Rephael Raagas, a recent graduate of the Philippine Science High School Central Luzon Campus, is making headlines not just for his scientific prowess but for his commitment to improving local educational resources.

Raagas made it to the Top 30 of the prestigious Breakthrough Junior Challenge, an international competition that recognizes outstanding science communicators.

This competition offers impressive rewards, including:

a $250,000 scholarship to a university of the winner’s choice,

a $50,000 for a teacher of the winner's choice; and,

a $100,000 science lab for the winner’s school.

THE JOURNEY

“Since I was a kid, I have been inclined not only towards science but also communication,” Raagas said.

"Since third grade, I’ve been organizing storytelling drives with various schools in the rural or less fortunate areas of Pampanga, as well as in the Pampanga Provincial Library," he added.

Raagas’s journey began with inspiration from Hillary Andales, a fellow Philippine Science High School alumna who won the Breakthrough Junior Challenge in 2017.

Attending Andales’ seminar in 2022, Raagas learned about the competition and was immediately drawn to it.

"I saw it as a viable way to showcase my science communication skills in a way that I got accustomed to during the pandemic—in video," Raagas said.

THE VIDEO

Raagas’s entry this year focuses on the TRPV1 protein, a critical element in understanding how capsaicin, the compound responsible for the heat in spicy food, affects the human sensory system.

His video, which breaks down complex scientific concepts into relatable and easy-to-understand content, reflects his unique ability to communicate science effectively.

However, Raagas’s ambition extends beyond personal success.

The PSHS Central Luzon Campus, where Raagas studied, has struggled with outdated and broken laboratory equipment due to the pandemic.

Raagas said their facilities are either broken or not operational, which delays research projects and forces students to seek external help.

Winning the $100,000 grant could provide new equipment and revitalize their labs, and benefit students across the region.

"Winning the funding for a new laboratory in my school will help not only students from my school, but students around Region III, [and] achieve success in their research projects," he said.

FUTURE GOALS

Looking ahead, Raagas has ambitious plans to further his impact on science education and communication.

“As a personal project, I would like to create my own series ala-crash course but in the local language, so that students have a more accessible learning resource for learning science-related topics,” he said.

This initiative aims to make science more accessible and engaging for students who may struggle with English-language resources.

In addition to this, Raagas is committed to continuing his storytelling projects.

“I would like to continue my storytelling initiatives in my free time, and hopefully produce my own science-related storybooks in the future,” he said.

These books would not only inspire young readers but also foster a deeper understanding of scientific concepts through relatable narratives.

Raagas is also focusing on a groundbreaking personal project: a handheld device designed to identify Philippine endemic and native birds by sound.

“I’m in the process of looking for investors and funding for further development of my research project, which is a handheld device that can detect Philippine endemic and native birds by sound,” he said.

His vision for this device is to enhance citizen science by providing a tool that promotes biodiversity conservation and engages the community in climate awareness.

VOTING

Raagas is determined to make it to the final round of the Breakthrough Junior Challenge.

"Now, I am once again in the Top 30 and I am in the running for the win," Raagas said.

The video with the most likes on Facebook and YouTube will bypass further judging phases and move straight to the finals.

Watch and vote for Raagas' video here.

Voting is open until September 21, 2024, 2 p.m.
—GMA Regional TV News