GeneSoc brings back IQlympics on-site

 Written by Chris Angelo Bartolome

The university-wide quiz contest welcomed teams from all types of degree programs in UPLB.

The IBS Lecture Hall (IBSLH) Main at the Institute of Biological Sciences (IBS), University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) witnessed the return of IQlympics hosted by The UPLB Genetics Society (GeneSoc) on December 7, 2023, after having its last on-site event back in 2019. 

Renowned as the most brain-draining quiz contest in the University, the IQlympics is a general knowledge quiz contest in which all students from UPLB can participate. The said event lived up to its reputation as a test of mental prowess and logic, covering various topics ranging from science, abstract reasoning, mathematics, pop culture, and current affairs. The quiz contest attracted 52 teams from different colleges university-wide. It was held as part of the celebration of Genetics Week, which had the theme, “Gene-side Out: Genetics of Emotions.”

Mr. Micko Jay Bajamundi and Asst. Prof. Jaysie Mher Tiongson served as judges for the IQlympics.

After a fierce competition showcasing the participants' excellence, three teams emerged victorious, securing the top spots in the contest. The winning teams: Team GOJOJO (Champion) comprised of John David L. Janobas, Joeimarie Carmela B. Bueno, and Allison Maxinne C. Go, Team Ma’am Kayi (1st Runner Up), and Team Tative (2nd Runner up) were awarded cash prizes of Php 3000, Php 2000, and Php 1000, respectively.

GeneSoc resident members gather for a photo-op after the successful conclusion of IQlympics 2023.

Aside from showcasing the intelligence of UPLB students, the IQlympics was also a manifestation of the organization’s dedication to its objectives. All proceeds generated from the contest were directed towards "One Gene, One Child," an outreach program initiated by GeneSoc that aims to support children with special needs under the care of Hope Intervention Center located in Calamba City, Laguna.