Three students from Baguio City National High School emerged as champions in the Baguio Country Club’s inaugural Philippine Independence Day Quiz Bee Competition held at the Ambassador Francisco V. Del Rosario Hall last June 12.
Zander Alexis Am-una, Cathyrine Rose Cayangen and Rian Carlou Margado garnered 27 points, edging out their closest rivals from Saint Louis School of Pacdal by a single point in the 30-point competition. The victory broke a prolonged tie between the two schools.
The group was able to recount struggles in their preparation for the event, especially the few times they were able to meet during their vacation. “Dalawang times lang po kasi kami nag-meet para mag-Question and Answer kami sa isa’t isa… And another is siguro nasa bahay, nasa bahay lang lagi so may mga things na kailangang gawin,” Cathyrine stated. Rian and Zander also expressed that they have taken their preparation time for granted.
Despite being on break and few meet-ups with their coach, the students managed to use the internet and maximize other available resources for their review. Zander made most of his 650 reviewers, Cathyrine explored various websites, and Rian used Artificial Intelligence software to study. All three also mentioned verifying and cross-referencing information with various and reliable sources as part of their preparation.
“I’m very happy. Sa wakas, nakuha nila [yung championship]. During the last quiz bee kasi sa may Session Road in Bloom Quiz Bee, na-one point po sila. Now, it’s time na makuha din nila yung one point na panalo nila,” said Janeth Quinio, the team’s coach, recounting two members of the group that had previously lost the championship title by one point during the last Panagbenga Session in Bloom Quiz Bee Competition.
Five schools, each represented by two teams, participated in the event: Baguio City National High School, Berkeley School, Pines City National High School, Saint Louis School of Pacdal and Saint Louis University Basic Education School. The champions received a 12,000 pesos cash prize. A consolation prize of 1,000 pesos was also awarded to the other participants. Coaches were recognized and given tokens of appreciation.
Concluding the event, Anthony De Leon, Baguio Country Club’s General Manager, announced that the Independence Day Quiz Bee will be held annually, with next year’s competition expected to offer increased cash prizes. By Aiyra Marzan
