Rowell Joven

A Legacy of Excellence: Alaminos City National High School Triumphs at Regeneron ISEF 2026

PHOENIX, ARIZONA — The Filipino spirit of innovation has once again illuminated the global stage. Charly David T. Manuel, a brilliant young scientist from Alaminos City National High School (ACNHS), has achieved a monumental milestone at the 2026 Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF).

In a ceremony celebrating the pinnacle of youth-led research, Manuel was named the Recipient of the 2nd Place Special Award from the Patent and Trademark Society. This prestigious honor recognizes projects that demonstrate not only scientific rigor but also the potential for immense real-world impact through intellectual property and innovation.

Manuel’s research, titled "Serial Crystallography–Optimized Sample Preparation with MYELin: Novel Homogeneous Protein Microcrystal Yield Density Control via Sequential Pulsed Electric Fields and Ultrasonic Irradiation," represents a significant leap forward in biotechnology.

Under the expert guidance of his research adviser, Kris Cristhopher C. Dela Cruz, Manuel developed the "MYELin" method. By utilizing a sophisticated combination of sequential pulsed electric fields and ultrasonic waves, he unlocked a new way to control protein microcrystals. This breakthrough has the potential to revolutionize how scientists study molecular structures, paving the way for more efficient drug discovery and medical treatments.

What makes this victory truly extraordinary is its place in school history. For the second year in a row, ACNHS has earned the privilege of representing the Philippines at ISEF.

Regeneron ISEF is the most prestigious and largest pre-collegiate science competition in the world. Bringing together nearly 2,000 students from over 70 countries, ISEF is the ultimate arena for young innovators.

Achieving a back-to-back appearance at the world's premier science fair is a rare and powerful testament to the school's unwavering commitment to excellence, proving that with the right mentorship, local talent can consistently compete with the finest minds on the planet.

The journey for Charly David does not end in Phoenix. Recognized for his exceptional talent, he is also the recipient of the Young Scientist Award and a scholar of the Gokongwei Brothers Foundation.

As he prepares for his next academic chapter, Charly is set to become an Iskolar ng Bayan at the University of the Philippines Diliman Campus, where he will pursue a degree in BS Molecular Biology and Biotechnology. His transition from a high school innovator to a premier university scholar marks the beginning of a promising career dedicated to scientific discovery for the nation.

This global success is the fruit of a collaborative effort from a community that believes in the power of education. These achievements were made possible through the support and guidance of the following:

Public Leadership: First District Representative, Congressman Arthur F. Celeste; the LGU Alaminos City headed by City Mayor Arth Bryan C. Celeste and City Vice Mayor Jose Antonio Miguel Y. Perez; and the LGU of the Municipality of Mabini, Mayor Colin A. Reyes.

Educational Leaders: SDO Alaminos City, under Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Ely S. Ubaldo, CESO V, and Assistant Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Wilfredo Sindayen, CESO VI; and CID Chief Dr. Orlando Guerrero.

Mentorship & School Support: EPS in Science Dr. Cynthia Tablang, for her constant mentorship; School Principal Mr. Rey Pascua; and Assistant Principals Mr. Florencio Valdez and Mr. Leomar Abarra.

The Research Team: Science Department Head Mr. Andrew R. Balecha, along with the research advisers and coaches who tirelessly guided our students every step of the way.

Expert Consultants: Qualified scientists Asst. Prof. Michael Sandino C. Flores, M.Sc., R.Ch. (UP Los Baños); Miss Fatima Keith B. Ramos, R.Ch.; and Mr. Aldrin Gomez, Mrs. Vivian R. Camba, and Mr. Bernard G. Mendez. We also want to express our sincerest thanks to Sir Jimmie Eslabra and Ma'am Rica RA Perez, our Regional EPSs for their technical assistance as well as to Sir Manny Rimorin Hortizuela and Sir Bench Lamadrid, our judges during RSTF and to Dr. King Harold Recto our judge during NSTF and Dr. Jiosver Temporal, we are grateful for all your technical assistance during the preparation for the ISEF.

Family & Community: His parents and guardians, whose unconditional support fueled this journey, and all stakeholders who continue to invest in the dreams of our youth.

As Charly David T. Manuel returns home, his success serves as a beacon of inspiration, proving that with passion, grit, and a supportive community, there are no limits to what a young Filipino scientist can achieve.

Congratulations, Charly! Your ACNHS Family is so proud of you!