The MATH WIZ KIDS of Iloilo

Text and photos by Wein P. Gadian

Wiz kids: Fred & Katrina

Math has always been a waterloo for most of us. More than just the subject being considered as very difficult, sometimes we already think of it as a complicated task. When it is time for Math classes, most can't help muttering an ‘oh no' especially if there's an exam. But then, we have to admit we can't live without Math. When we buy something or pay for our bills, we can't stay away from the numbers. But there are also people who find this subject a piece of cake. Though there are only a few of them, we consider them geniuses, like the late Albert Einstein. His intellect never fails to amaze us.

In Iloilo, we are lucky to have two math wiz kids. They are Fred Nyll S.Tupas, a sixth grader and Maria Katrina P. Acuros, a freshman in high school. Both are into regional and national competitions for Math. Fred Nyll (11 y.o.) has been in the honors list, while Maria Katrina (12 y.o.) was a class valedictorian. Fred is the youngest son of Fred Tupas and Herminilda Sambo. Katrina is the only daughter of Napoleon Acuros and Fidela Parial.

Like all the other kids, both of them love playing and interacting with friends and classmates. Fred Nyll enjoys playing Tekken 5 and all its versions, chess and also likes

playing around with Mathematical formulas. He loves reading books and anything about computers. At a young age, he has already been admiring the writings of Dan Brown and has especially enjoyed his Demons and Angels.

Wacky shot with Sir Jonathan Glorial

Even before he turned 12, he already aced competitions and would always bring home the gold medal. Among these competitions were the Metrobank Mathematics Teachers Association of the Philippines Department of Education Math Challenge, International Contest in Mathematics and others. When asked about his secret, he humbly says, “It's all about determination and positive thinking. And with these things, I always keep my feet on the ground. And for the students, be your best in your studies. Keep trying until you succeed.”

As a valedictorian, Katrina has developed discipline in her studies. She makes sure she has time for everything. Thrill is something she likes and finds it in Math. Like anyone, she sometimes think Math problems are also difficult especially puzzle problems.

At 12, Katrina has also won awards including the Philippine International Contest in Tagbilaran City, Bohol last May 21- 25, 2005. She emerged as regional champion in the Metrobank Mathematics Teachers Association of the Philippines Department of Education Math Challenge of this year.

Being a Math wiz, one really needs discipline and trainings. Both kids have undergone training in preparation for every competition. Their trainings and reviews are done with the help of Mr. Jen and Mr. Jonathan Glorial. They also qualified for the international competition after passing the Mathematics Trainer's Guild of the Philippines last July 2004. Just this year they were trained for one month at Chaing Kai Chek College in Manila.

Katrina and Fred Nyll are from West Visayas State University. They are also joining other nationalities coming August 8 – 14 for the China Primary School Math Olympiad. This is an international competition and will be held in Tai-an City, Shandong, China.

Let's take pride for this two kids and with good faith that they'll bring more awards to Iloilo.