THE Philippines will be represented for the first time at the F1 in Schools World Finals, a global competition where student teams design, build and race miniature compressed air-powered cars.
The AGILAS F1 in Schools Racing Team, formed in August 2023, will compete in Saudi Arabia this November. The competition uses computer-aided design and manufacturing software to create the cars, which are made from F1 model blocks.
F1 in Schools Ltd., a nonprofit established by Formula 1, aims to inspire future generations in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields. The competition tests students in engineering, project management, branding and marketing.
AGILAS, derived from the Filipino words “Agila” (national pride) and “Magilas” (determination), is led by managing director and chief engineer Neo Kimi Gatlabayan. He formed the team after taking an F1 in Schools development course in Thailand.
“We are excited to represent the Philippines in the 2024 F1 in Schools World Finals,” Neo said. “The team is pouring its heart into the competition, with the goal of making the Philippines proud.
“We invite you on an exhilarating journey with us as we gear up and boost our engines for the 2024 F1 in Schools World Finals in Saudi Arabia this November. Be a crucial part of our success through collaboration and fuel our passion by becoming a partner,” he said.
As managing director and chief engineer, Gatlabayan coordinates and plans team activities to ensure the project progress follows schedule. “As chief engineer, I am primarily in charge of the design and development of our car, and it is my responsibility to guarantee that it is as fast as possible while adhering to the rules and regulations,” he said.
Other team members are equally competitive, with Andre Anggala, the brand manager and project strategist ensuring the growth of the brand via market research and the measuring of brand performance. He is also responsible for the design of the pit display.
