MANILA, Philippines – At just 12 years old, one Filipino student proved that determination, discipline, and a passion for mathematics can open doors to the world’s biggest academic stages.
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| Photo courtesy: Liezel Joy Pornillos |
Lebron James Bermudez Pornillos brought pride to the Philippines after winning two gold medals, one silver medal, and the Overall Runner-up title in the Grade 6 category at the prestigious Singapore International Math Olympiad Challenge (SIMOC) 2026 in Singapore.
This year's SIMOC gathered 2,285 students from Grades 1 to 12 representing 1,113 schools across 40 countries and territories, making every medal a remarkable achievement.
Lebron struck gold in the individual Math Olympiad event before helping his team secure another gold in Math Master Mind.
He also earned a silver medal in the Math Warriors team competition, giving him the highest number of awards among the 14-member Philippine delegation.
The Philippine Embassy in Singapore described his achievement as a reflection of "extraordinary mathematical ability, teamwork, and consistency throughout the competition."
The Embassy also congratulated the entire Philippine contingent, their parents, educators, and the Asian MathSci League, Inc. (AMSLI) for their dedication in nurturing young Filipino talents.
For Lebron, however, success did not happen overnight.
A graduate with Highest Honors from Sunny Brooke Elementary School in General Trias City, Cavite, he recently began his journey as a Grade 7 student at the Philippine Science High School–Quezon City.
His impressive international track record started as early as Grade 3, when he began collecting top awards in the Singapore and Asian Schools Math Olympiad (SASMO), SIMOC, World Mathematics Invitational (WMI), Math Without Borders (MWB), and the Asian Science and Mathematics Olympiad for Primary and Secondary Schools (ASMOPSS).
Behind those achievements is the unwavering support of his parents, former Philippine Army soldier Raymond De Lima Pornillos and homemaker Liezel Joy Diaz Bermudez Pornillos, together with his teachers, AMSLI mentors, and the Local Government of General Trias City.
Despite his growing collection of international medals, Lebron remains grounded and focused on an even bigger dream.
He hopes to become a civil engineer someday, using his love for mathematics to help build stronger communities and create a better future.
His journey serves as a powerful reminder that with talent, perseverance, and the right support, Filipino students can stand shoulder to shoulder with the world's brightest young minds.
— The Summit Express
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