Hi, Hive!
I hope all is well with you! This blog will be about my PMO experience, but before everything else, I will first share my passion for math.
My Love for Math
During my childhood days, I have consistently held a love for mathematics. Since the first grade, I have been involved in the Mathematics Teachers Association of the Philippines (MTAP) and different math competitions. Even though I participated in these competitions during elementary school, I only achieved victory once—in sixth grade, when my two classmates and I secured second place. However, that did not make me feel like I failed in something I cherish, as finishing second is still a significant accomplishment.
And now, let's talk about my PMO experience.
Preparation
Upon discovering that I would take part in the 27th Philippine Mathematical Olympiad (PMO) Region VII Qualifying Stage, I had to pay 200 pesos for food and transportation as the event was scheduled at the University of the Philippines - Cebu Campus in Lahug, Cebu City, on November 23, 2024. However, the fee was later refunded. I also had to provide my personal information, such as my full name, cellphone number, and Gmail account, so the PMO institution could email me my contestant code, test site, and exam requirements.
Practice
From November 12 to 21, 2024, my fellow competitors and I were allowed to miss our classes for half-days on alternate schedules to get ready for the contest. Numerous educators assisted us in reviewing mathematics from Grade 7 to Grade 12, addressing subjects ranging from basic to highly advanced.
The practice sessions were beneficial, and I learned a lot of math concepts that I needed for the exam. Although some lessons were quite difficult—especially the advanced topics, since I was still in Grade 11—I genuinely enjoyed all the discussions. This experience has become a core memory for me.
The Drive to UP Cebu
The trip to UP Cebu was stressful. The bus we intended to take broke down, causing considerable worry as it was already 7:00 AM, and we needed to arrive at the venue by 12:00 noon for the orientation. Luckily, our educators were able to secure another.
During the ride, I was asleep because of my motion sickness.
Arrival
We reached UP Cebu at 11:30 AM; however, we still had to have lunch. Before eating, I spent some time wandering the campus and finding the room where I would be taking my exam.
During the Exam
The exam had three levels of difficulty:
Test 1 (Easy): 1 point per question
Test 2 (Average): 3 points per question
Test 3 (Difficult): 5 points per question
Tests 1 & 2 had multiple-choice questions, while Test 3 had no choices. The entire exam lasted three to four hours ( I don't really remember the exact time but its around 3-4 hours). The use of calculators was banned, making it harder to solve some of the problems.
Once I arrived at the testing center and obtained my test paper from the proctor, my first reaction was, “Wow, how am I going to answer this?” The space was icy, and I was shivering—not merely due to the chill but also because I felt a mental obstruction. Despite everything, I eventually managed to finish my exam to the best of my capability.
After the Exam
Once I submitted my responses, I stepped outside to use the bathroom and search for my teachers and friends. A few of my friends were still completing the exam, so I waited for them. After everyone was done, our instructors returned the 200 pesos we had originally paid.
To commemorate, we all visited SM Cebu City, where we enjoyed dinner and played games at World of Fun. One thing is for sure — we had fun!
The Drive Home
I don’t remember much about the ride home because I was asleep—I was exhausted. But one thing is certain: we all got home safely.
