Conferred with YES medals, this recognition signifies the Department of Science and Technology’s (DOST) high regard for excellence in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). More than just an award, it serves as a badge of honor for the emerging STEM leaders and advocates of this generation.

For over seventeen years, the Science Education Institute (SEI) has remained steadfast in its mission: to cultivate generations of learners who will champion scientific excellence in the country. This is precisely what the YES medals represent—a symbol of inspiration, urging Filipino youth to reach their full potential and turn their dreams into reality.

In his speech, DOST-SEI Director Jayeel S. Cornelio reinforced this vision, stating, “Through this event, we hope to build the next generation of scientists who are committed to the welfare of the nation... While you are winning medals around the world, remember to serve this nation to show the world that the Philippines can be great again.”

Beyond intellectual excellence, Cornelio also underscored the importance of character and moral integrity among the youth. For him, “Intelligence is useless if not used beyond one’s gain and self-recognition. Instead, intelligence is more meaningful if used to make a difference.”

A growing community of innovators

This year, a record-breaking 2,504 young Filipino innovators from various regions were conferred YES medals—an impressive 18.45% increase from the 2,115 awardees in 2023. This marks only the second time in the program’s history that the number of recipients has exceeded 2,000 since the awards were first introduced in 2007.

Given the surge in awardees, DOST-SEI held three successive awarding ceremonies for the first time. These ceremonies, which honored the Filipino youth’s remarkable contributions to the international STEM arena, took place in Tacloban (Region VIII), Benguet (Region II), and Cagayan de Oro (Region X) in June, August, and November 2024, respectively.

Joining the celebration were the awardees’ parents and guardians, members of the science community, the academe, and the institute’s valued partners from local STEM competitions.

More than a celebration, the annual YES Awards embody a singular vision: to inspire the Filipino youth to serve the nation through science and technology. It is a call to action—an encouragement to pursue public service beyond mere accolades. More than anything, the YES medals serve as a lasting reminder that true excellence is grounded in humility and purpose.