TACLOBAN CITY — Three students from Baybay City brought international recognition to Eastern Visayas after earning top awards in the GHMEC Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macau English Contest 2026 – Global Preliminary Stage.
The three young contestants from Baybay City competed in the Global Qualifying Round, held online from June 28 to July 11, 2026, against participants from different countries. The preliminary stage results were announced on Aug. 8.
Leading the awardees was Mark Jayven Marabante of Baybay 1 Central School, who received the International Gold Award in the 3–4 age group for his performance in the competition.
His sibling, Mark Jhyron Marabante, also from Baybay 1 Central School, won the International Silver Award in the 7–8 age group.
Another member of the Marabante family, Mark Jayden Marabante of Baybay National High School, also received an International Silver Award in the 13–14 age group.
The siblings achievements drew recognition from the regional office of the Department of Education (DepEd) which congratulated them for bringing distinction to their respective schools, families, Eastern Visayas, and the Philippines.
DepEd-8 said the learners demonstrated their abilities on an international platform and served as an inspiration to other students in the region.
The regional office also encouraged the awardees to continue pursuing excellence and to inspire their fellow learners through their dedication and achievements.
The international recognition highlights the ability of learners from Eastern Visayas to compete in global academic and language competitions while underscoring the role of schools, teachers, and families in developing their skills and confidence.
(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)
