ILOILO CITY — The Department of Science and Technology Region VI (DOST-VI) awarded 256 scholar-graduates from Batch 2024 with the Medal of Academic Excellence in Science and Technology during the In Touch with Excellence (ITWE) Awarding Ceremony held on April 25, 2025, at Diversion 21 Hotel, Iloilo City.

ITWE is an annual recognition ceremony that celebrates the outstanding academic and professional achievements of DOST scholars from across Western Visayas and Negros Occidental. It highlights the accomplishments of those who have graduated with Latin honors or achieved top ranks in national licensure examinations.

“Take with you the fire of curiosity, the discipline of research, and the heart to serve. Be fearless in pushing boundaries. Be bold in proposing solutions. And be humble enough to collaborate, to listen, and to keep learning,” Engr. Gelonga emphasized.

This year’s roster of Latin awardees include 11 Summa cum Laude, 94 Magna cum Laude, and 151 cum Laude graduates. The ceremony marked a significant milestone for these young science and technology professionals, whose achievements reflect both academic excellence and dedication to their respective fields.

In addition to scholar-graduates who graduated with Latin honors, 13 scholar-alumni were recognized for ranking in various professional board licensure examinations. Among them were three (3) topnotchers in the Electronics Technicians Licensure Examination, three (3) in the Mechanical Engineering Licensure Examination, and another three (3) in the Fisheries Professional Licensure Examination. Two (2) scholar-graduates placed in the Chemical Engineering board exam, while one each topped the Chemical Technician and Licensure Examination for Professional Teachers.

DOST-VI continues to support and celebrate the achievements of its scholars, reaffirming its commitment to nurturing a strong and dynamic pool of S&T leaders and professionals who will contribute to national development and innovation. (MLGArticuna/STHRDS)