SENATE Minority Leader Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III called on the 19 young mathematicians who won gold medals to serve as role models to Filipino students and make them interested in science and math.

Pimentel made the statement as he congratulated the 19 Filipino students who won gold medals in the World International Mathematical Olympiad held on January 7 to 8, 2023 in Bangkok, Thailand.

“I hope that you will serve as good role models because we are faring poorly in math, science and reading. So our students really need some models to look up to,” he said.

Senator Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr. also lauded the young champions and urged them to continue honing their skills.

“At their tender age, they proved that Filipino youth are truly ‘MATH-TINIK’ that even though we are considered a third world country, our youth can be considered first-class who are able to keep up, able to compete and able to win against any other country,” Revilla said.

“Their success was amazing. To our young math geniuses, my salute to each of you. Continue to hone your skills. We are proud of you,” he added.