High school teacher in Benguet wins 2 global awards for research, public speaking

Mankayan, Benguet – A Cordilleran researcher was conferred two prestigious awards at the recent 2025 International Educators Conference & Global Educators Awards, which was held on May 15-17, 2025, in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. 

Wilbert B. Wanas, from Mankayan, Benguet, was recognized as the Outstanding Global Researcher & Impromptu Speech champion in the said event. 

The international award-winning iMankayan is a passionate educator and researcher. He is currently a Secondary School Teacher III at Guinaoang National High School in Mankayan. He is also known as a researcher and advocate for Indigenous Peoples’ rights, youth empowerment, and cultural preservation. 

Wilbert’s award-winning research 

In an interview with Guru Press Cordillera, Wilbert relayed that his award-winning study, “ASOK CHRONICLES: Understanding the Phenomenon of Vaping among High School Students—A Basis for an Intervention Program,” was inspired by what he saw happening in schools. 

The word ‘Asok’ comes from youth slang and refers to how peer pressure and social trends lead students to try vaping. 

Wilbert recounted that his research began after he noticed many students vaping while they were having conversations with both their teacher and fellow learners.

Using interviews and observations, he looked into why students vape, how peer pressure plays a role, and what emotional challenges they face. 

“Vaping is no longer a distant issue; it is right in our classrooms, our hallways, and our communities. My research explored why students vape—examining the social dynamics, emotional struggles, and peer influences surrounding the practice. Using qualitative methods, I gathered firsthand narratives from students to unearth the "why" behind the behavior. Ultimately, the goal is to create a research-based intervention program grounded in empathy and reality—one that schools can adapt to guide, not punish, students who vape,” Wilbert narrated. 

Wilbert becoming the Impromptu Speech champion

In the Impromptu Speech contest, teacher Wilbert chose to speak about “Future of Philippine Government Leadership.” 

He shared that his vision for leadership is based on the kan-kanaey values. These include inayan (do not), teppe (self-control), ten-en (to take things moderately), i-uya (selfless giving), and binnadang (cooperation/unity). 

“Actually the leadership I envisioned is anchored on 5 kankanaey values, namely inayan, teppe, ten-en, i-uya, and binnadang,” he shared. 

In his talk, he tackled how corruption is becoming smarter, not wanting mayors to be replaced by artificial intelligence, adhering to self-control, and looking after the welfare of constituents; among others. 

What’s next for teacher Wilbert? 

Wilbert added that he plans to publish his research with the goal of contributing to a research culture rooted in the local realities as Cordillerans, mentoring future educators and researchers who can carry the torch forward. 

“This award is both an affirmation and a beginning. I plan to refine and publish my research so it can reach more schools, policymakers, and educators. But more importantly, I want to pilot the intervention program I proposed, starting with my own school and division,” he relayed.

Aside from that, Wilbert will be conducting follow-up studies that will dive deeper into adolescent behavior, mental health, and substance use.

Wilbert’s advice to young researchers 

Wilbert said young researchers ought to make their studies be driven by passion and curiosity. They should listen deeply, trust the process, and seek mentors, as they make all the difference. 

“Don’t be afraid to pursue a topic that truly speaks to you. The best research doesn’t come from textbooks—it comes from the heart, from lived experiences, and curiosity about the world around you. Start with something you care about deeply, something that you see or feel regularly,” he added.