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| (Image Source: Philippine Information Agency/Department Of Science And Technology-Batangas) |
“Sa wakas, may makakaintindi na rin sa'kin.” Those were the first words of Javed Gage Felipe Magsino, a nine-year-old aspiring inventor from San Juan, Batangas, as he stepped inside the Department of Science and Technology (DOST)-Batangas office after the agency responded to an open letter posted online by his mother, a public high school teacher, last July 2, 2026. The heartfelt letter described Javed's endless curiosity about science, technology, and inventions and expressed hope that someone could help nurture his passion.
The post quickly reached DOST-Batangas which immediately invited the young learner and his family to visit the Provincial Science and Technology Office. What followed was not an ordinary office tour but a conversation that revealed the remarkable curiosity of a child whose interests extend far beyond his years. During the discussion, Javed confidently talked about Arduino, computer programming, artificial intelligence, augmented reality, space science, and even concepts related to pseudoscience, surprising DOST personnel with the depth of his knowledge. He shared that his favorite subjects are Science, Mathematics, and Information and Communications Technology, and that he dreams of becoming an inventor, programmer, astronaut, or chemist someday. His parents shared that they had long noticed that Javed learns differently from most children his age. Although the results of his intelligence quotient (IQ) assessment have yet to be released, they said his eagerness to learn and his advanced understanding of scientific concepts have always stood out. Instead of spending most of his time on gadgets, Javed devotes much of his free time to reading books and learning about computer programming, engineering, and space exploration. His parents intentionally limit his gadget use to school breaks, encouraging him to satisfy his curiosity through reading and self-directed learning. Recognizing his enthusiasm for science and innovation, DOST-Batangas introduced Javed to several programs designed to cultivate young scientific minds including STARBOOKS, JuanaKnow, Inventions, and Programming for 3D Printing.
To give him first-hand exposure to real-world science and technology applications, DOST-Batangas toured him around the Regional Volumetric Calibration Laboratory where he learned how road tankers are calibrated to ensure the accurate measurement of fuel products before distribution. He was also handed with science books and magazines which he can read to further his knowledge. His learning journey continued at the Science, Technology, Engineering and Environment Research (STEER) Hub of Batangas State University where DOST personnel accompanied him on a guided visit to the university's Fabrication Laboratory. There, Javed explored advanced fabrication equipment, witnessed how three-dimensional printing transforms digital designs into physical prototypes, and experienced a virtual reality device firsthand. The immersive experience further fueled his fascination with engineering, emerging technologies, and invention. To further encourage his aspirations, DOST-Batangas also coordinated a visit to the Philippine Science High School CALABARZON Region Campus in Batangas City where Javed will have the opportunity to experience an environment that nurtures young learners with exceptional interest and potential in science and mathematics.
For DOST-Batangas, the visit reflects its commitment to nurturing future scientists, innovators, and technology leaders by creating opportunities for young Filipinos to explore science beyond the classroom. Sometimes, all it takes is one letter, one opportunity, and one conversation to remind a child that curiosity has a place to grow. For Javed, that journey began with a simple hope, that someone would finally understand him. On that day, they did.
