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,” said Gatlabayan.
“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.
“My role as the project strategist involves planning, executing and overseeing the projects to ensure they are completed on time, within the specified budget, and with the desired quality,” said Anggala.
Marcus Lau, the finance chief and design engineer looks after the funds and budget the resources accordingly. “I also monitor all transactions and ensure all cash flow is recorded and appropriated. Moreover, my role as the design engineer is to devise a model of the miniature car we make on 3D design software. I design the model to be as aerodynamic as possible to make it as fast as possible,” he said.
Adrianna Bernardo, the marketing chief and graphic designer, coordinates with potential partners to ensure she effectively communicates the message to the public to generate engagement and popularity. She is also responsible for the team’s marketing design aspects, such as logos, social media posts and slideshows,” she said.
Marga Gorospe, the marketing secretary and graphic designer, assists in managing the team’s social media platforms while Aaron Chua, the manufacturing engineer and finance officer, works with Marcus to log expenses and sponsorship revenue and set feasible long-term financial goals.
AGILAS is seeking corporate partners to support their participation and promote STEM education in the Philippines. “It’s a unique opportunity to partner with our team, putting the Philippines on the global map in STEM and motorsport,” Gatlabayan said. “This not only supports our team but also serves as an investment in the broader education system.”
“Through this partnership, your company gains international visibility as a catalyst in shaping Filipino youth into a skilled and dynamic workforce poised to drive future technological and entrepreneurial advancements,” he said.