6-year-old from Tuguegarao wins gold in 2025 Thailand International Math Olympiad

Tuguegarao City, Cagayan — At just six years old, Haliya Catarina Flores Guzman from Tuguegarao City has brought pride to her city, province, and the entire nation after achieving a gold award at the Thailand International Mathematical Olympiad (TIMO) 2025, recently held in Bangkok, Thailand.

The international math competition is recognized worldwide for its challenging problem-solving rounds that gather young learners from various countries to test their mathematical mastery.

Throughout the event, Haliya showcased her exceptional problem-solving skills with calm confidence, impressing both the judges and her fellow contestants.

A Grade 1 pupil at Tuguegarao West Central School, Haliya’s gold medal is an impressive feat—especially as it was her first time joining an international competition at such a young age.

In an exclusive interview with XFM-Tuguegarao, Haliya shared that she simply felt happy upon hearing that she won. She admitted that she did not expect to achieve such success on her first try at an international contest.

When asked how she was able to join the Olympiad, the young math prodigy recalled that it all began when her adviser noticed her quick comprehension and fast problem-solving skills in class.

Since then, her adviser, school principal, and grandmother, Basilia Flores, have supported her preparation. She also participated in online math review sessions before the competition.

“Si Ma’am Mela Malabanan, ang adviser ko sa Grade 1, sinabihan niya si lola ko na sumali ako sa Thailand International Mathematical Olympiad dahil napansin niya mabilis akong sumagot sa math lessons namin. I was also supported by our principal, Ma’am Evangeline Palejo. Sumali po ako sa online math review sessions through Zoom, at tinulungan din po ako ng lola ko sa pagrereview,” said Haliya in mixed Tagalog and English.

The 6-year-old, whose parents are a physician and a police officer, expressed heartfelt gratitude to her family, teachers, and school for their unwavering support, recognizing their vital role in nurturing her skills and confidence.

Haliya also encouraged her classmates and fellow youngsters to believe in themselves, saying that with dedication and effort, they too can excel in mathematics.

“Mga kapwa ko mag-aaral at kabataan, kaya nating makipagsabayan sa mga hamon ng Mathematics sa buong bansa. Bigyan lang natin ng oras at sipag para makamit ang best result,” she added.