PH Team AGILAS to Compete in F1 in Schools World Finals
Photo source: Team Agilas Gallery
For the first time, the Philippines will participate in the F1 in Schools World Finals. Six STEM students from the British School Manila will represent the country in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia, from November 21 to 28, 2024.
The Filipino team, known as AGILAS, drew inspiration for their name from the Philippine eagle and the Filipino word magilas, which means “elegant” or “impressive.” By combining these elements, AGILAS embodies both their identity and their determination to excel in the competition.
The team comprises senior students Neo Gatlabayan, Gian Andre Benjamin Gaisano Anggala, Lau Li Kahi (Marcus), and Sofia Margaret Gorospe, junior Aaron Gabriel Chua, and sophomore Tara Bahukhandi. Their adviser is Jenna Storey.
What is F1 in Schools?
F1 in Schools is an international STEM challenge that inspires interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics among students. By leveraging the excitement of Formula 1 racing, the program provides a platform for young minds to apply their skills in a dynamic and competitive environment.
Participants are tasked with designing and manufacturing miniature F1 cars using advanced tools like CAD/CAM and CAE software. Teams are evaluated on various criteria, including Design & Engineering, Project Management, Enterprise, Pit Display, Verbal Presentation, Racing Track/Car Performance, and Scrutineering.
Challenges and Determination
Andre, the team’s Brand Manager and Race and Performance Engineer, highlighted a unique challenge: the absence of an In-Country Coordinator for F1 in Schools in the Philippines. To bridge this gap, the team traveled to Thailand to access the necessary software and facilities for car manufacturing.
“They have a readily available 3D printer there,” Andre explained in an interview with ABS-CBN News. “Whatever design we want to create, we just design it, print it, and receive it in 30 minutes.”
Marga, AGILAS’ Pit Design Engineer and Marketing Associate, shared that they also needed to visit Thailand to access a racetrack to test their miniature F1 cars.
“We don’t have the track here, and that’s almost one-fourth of our score in the actual world finals,” she noted.
Inspiring the Next Generation
While the pressure of being the first Filipino team to compete is palpable, AGILAS embraces the challenge with excitement and confidence. They see their participation as an opportunity to pave the way for future STEM students in the Philippines.
“We want to inspire the next generation of STEM students,” Andre said. “All the lessons we’ve collectively learned will be invaluable to those who decide to participate in this endeavor.”
The team also expressed their willingness to mentor future participants, offering guidance on software, design, and sponsorship pitching.
Through their journey, AGILAS hopes to showcase Filipino talent on the global stage and encourage more young minds to engage in STEM, proving that passion and perseverance can drive innovation and excellence.
