By Ralph C. Malacad

The invited alumni, Mr. John Benedict Felices and Engr. Ma. Charlene Stephanie R. Hilvano (4th and 5th from the left, respectively), who served as guest speakers during the awarding of certificates of appreciation, are joined in the photo by School Principal Mr. Agapito Teodoro N. Manaog and Science Department Head Mrs. Gina T. Villanueva (3rd and 2nd from the left, respectively), department heads Mr. Rodolfo Del Rosario, Mrs. Vivian Demavivas, and Mrs. Socorro Domingo (6th, 7th, and 8th from the left, respectively), and the Science Month Chairperson, Mrs. Ma. Peñafrancia T. De Leon (leftmost).

Pasay City West High School (PCWHS) celebrated Science Month 2025 throughout September with a series of engaging and educational activities that fueled learners’ passion for science and innovation, anchored on the theme “Siyensya, Teknolohiya, at Inobasyon: Kabalikat sa Matatag, Maginhawa, at Panatag na Kinabukasan.”

One of the major highlights of the celebration was the Sci-Vivor Challenge, which featured thrilling rounds in Earth Science, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. Learners eagerly participated in each round, showcasing their scientific knowledge, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. The event successfully combined fun and learning, bringing science to life in every classroom.

The area chairs of the four learning areas, Mrs. Herminia L. Balantakbo, Mrs. Maria Cristina D. Singson, Mrs. Maria Corazon C. Fuentes, and Mr. Ralph C. Malacad, together with the rest of the Science Department, devoted their efforts to designing and facilitating the challenges.

Another highlight of the month-long celebration was the Scientific Career Talk, which inspired students to explore future careers in science, research, and innovation. The talk featured PCWHS alumni Ms. Chelsea Trinidad C. Mercines, Mr. John Benedict Felices, and Engr. Ma. Charlene Stephanie R. Hilvano—graduates of the Science, Technology, and Engineering (STE) Program (formerly DOST-ESEP). They shared how their experiences as Westians shaped their academic journeys and guided them toward their professional careers.

STE learners served as the audience, listening attentively and gaining valuable insights from the inspiring stories of their fellow Westians. Master Teachers Mrs. Fuentes, Mrs. Balantakbo, and Mrs. Singson facilitated the event.

Learners showcased their artistic flair and imagination during the On-the-Spot Poster Making Contest, chaired by Mr. Jaycent M. Bustos. With brushes and colors in hand, participants vividly captured the year’s Science Month theme, reflecting their understanding and appreciation of science and innovation through art.

The Science Quiz Bee brought out the learners’ sharp minds and quick thinking as they competed in challenging rounds that tested their knowledge across various scientific disciplines. Adding excitement and wonder to the celebration, Science Magicians showcased creativity and ingenuity during the Science Tricks presentation, performing fascinating experiments that amazed both students and teachers alike.

During the culmination program, School Principal IV Mr. Agapito Teodoro N. Manaog reflected on the theme “Agham, Teknolohiya, at Inobasyon: Kabalikat sa Matatag, Maginhawa, at Panatag na Kinabukasan,” emphasizing science as a vital partner in building a resilient and sustainable nation. Earlier, Assistant Principal II Mrs. Ena R. Tamayo highlighted the importance of science in shaping the future and developing learners into critical thinkers and problem solvers.

Science Department Head Mrs. Gina T. Villanueva expressed gratitude to the teachers for their teamwork and dedication in making the celebration successful. To formally close the event, Science Month 2025 Chair Mrs. Ma. Peñafrancia T. De Leon and Co-Chair Mr. Jaycent M. Bustos thanked everyone for their active participation and encouraged learners to continue exploring and innovating beyond the celebration.

The YES-O and Science Club officers pose for a photo with their respective advisers, Mr. Johnny Aga Alingasa (YES-O) and Mrs. Ma. Peñafrancia T. De Leon (Science Club), along with the school administrators led by School Principal Mr. Agapito Teodoro N. Manaog and Science Department Head Mrs. Gina T. Villanueva, following the Oath-Taking Ceremony.