GENERAL TRIAS CITY, Cavite — A 12-year-old Math Olympiad gold medalist from Cavite has drawn public attention after revealing he travels alone to international competitions because local government funding does not cover a parent’s travel costs.
Lebron James Bermudez Pornillos, a scholar from General Trias City, Cavite, shared the disclosure during the Aug. 10, 2026 episode of the “Eat Bulaga!” segment “The Age is Right.”
Asked who accompanies him to competitions, his parents replied simply, “Siya lang po,” or “Just him.”
Pornillos explained that the fund allocated by their local government unit is intended for him alone, meaning any parent who wants to accompany him must shoulder the expense themselves.
The revelation prompted an emotional response online, with one social media user saying it was disheartening that the government could not provide enough support for even one parent to accompany an only child representing the country abroad.
The commenter also criticized politicians accused of misusing public funds. Another user questioned why television host Maine Mendoza, whose husband is a politician, had not spoken out on the issue.
Pornillos has built a record of academic achievement in recent years. He graduated with highest honors from Sunny Brooke Elementary School in General Trias, where he was recognized for conquering the National Sipnayan math competition and for earning gold medals in both Math Olympiad and Mind Sport competitions.
He most recently swept top honors at the Singapore International Math Olympiad Challenge 2026, an achievement that has been publicly recognized and supported by the General Trias City government.
He is now a Grade 7 scholar at the Philippine Science High School–Quezon City Campus.
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