A young scientist from Camarines Sur has delivered a standout performance for the Philippines at the 19th International Earth Science Olympiad (IESO), earning an individual gold medal and helping the country secure a silver in the International Team Field Investigation (ITFI) in Turin, Italy.
Rodney Corbin P. Sarmiento, a Grade 12 student of Nabua National High School, emerged as the Philippines’ lone gold medalist in the individual category of the international competition held from August 20 to 27, 2026.
His achievement became a milestone for the Philippine delegation, with Sarmiento becoming only the second Filipino to win an individual gold medal at the IESO since the country first achieved the feat in 2011.
The achievement extended beyond the individual competition, as Sarmiento was also part of the team that earned a silver medal in the International Team Field Investigation (ITFI), a component that requires participants to collaborate in examining geological and environmental challenges and developing field-based solutions.
Sarmiento’s international campaign was the result of a series of achievements in earth science competitions. He first distinguished himself at the Philippine Earth Science Olympiad, advancing from among the country’s national finalists. He later competed at the Earth Science Festival in Tsukuba, Japan, where he earned a bronze medal and secured his place on the national IESO team.
At Nabua National High School, Sarmiento was mentored by Dr. Raquel Togores, whose guidance formed part of his preparation for the demanding international competition.
Camarines Sur Gov. Luis Raymund “Lray” Villafuerte congratulated Sarmiento, describing the achievement as a source of pride for the province and the country.
“Rodney, you didn’t just win a gold medal. You showed an entire generation what is possible when talent is matched with dedication, discipline and the courage to pursue excellence. Your achievement is a proud moment for Camarines Sur and the Philippines, and we hope it inspires more young Camarinenses to believe in their abilities and pursue opportunities on the international stage,” Villafuerte said.
For the Provincial Government of Camarines Sur, Sarmiento’s achievement highlights the potential of young Camarinenses to excel in highly competitive international academic competitions.
Sarmiento, meanwhile, looked beyond the medals when reflecting on his experience in Turin, highlighting the people he met and the opportunity to learn alongside young earth science enthusiasts from different parts of the world.
“Participating in the IESO and meeting kind and intelligent people from all corners of the world, all against the backdrop of the beautiful Italian Alps, was an experience I will never forget,” Sarmiento said.
With his gold medal and ITFI silver, Sarmiento has added a significant international achievement to the growing record of accomplishments of young Camarinenses, bringing pride to Nabua, Camarines Sur and the Philippines.
His achievement serves as an inspiration to students across the province, showing that dedication, preparation and opportunity can open doors to the international stage.
Source: Province of Camarines Sur