Filipina student shines at John Locke Global Essay Prize 

MANILA, Philippines — Young Filipina student Amanda Katherine “Andy” Chua has earned “High Commendations” in both Law and Politics at the prestigious 2026 John Locke Institute Global Essay Prize, marking an exceptional achievement in one of the world’s most competitive international essay competitions. 

The final results were announced recently during the John Locke Institute Global Essay Prize award ceremony held at the Grosvenor House Hotel in Mayfair, London.

A Grade 11 student at Everest International Academy in Manila, Chua’s two essays submitted in this year’s competition — one in Law and another one in Politics — were both shortlisted last July from more than 10,000 entries submitted by students from around the world. The shortlist represented approximately the top 17.5% of eligible entries, already placing Chua among the competition’s highest-performing participants.

The final results announcement in October, where Chua received High Commendations in both essays further elevated her achievement. A High Commendation recognizes exceptional essays that advance beyond the shortlist stage, with only around 3% of all entrants receiving this distinction. Earning High Commendation in two different disciplines in the global essay competition underscores not only Chua’s ability to write compellingly, but also her capacity to engage thoughtfully with complex issues in both legal and political thought.

“I’m incredibly grateful and honored to receive High Commendations for both my Law and Politics essays. The experience of competing alongside students from around the world challenged me to think more deeply, strengthen my arguments and express my ideas more clearly.

“I’m especially thankful to my family, teachers and mentors who encouraged me throughout the process. This recognition motivates me to continue learning, asking difficult questions and finding ways to make my voice count,” said Chua.

The John Locke Institute Global Essay Prize challenges students to develop independent arguments and demonstrate intellectual engagement with challenging questions across disciplines. Its international reach attracts aspiring young scholars from numerous countries and educational backgrounds.

Chua’s success in the competition indeed places her among an international community of young thinkers who are developing the skills needed to contribute meaningfully to conversations on law, politics and society. For a young Filipino student competing on an international stage, the achievement is also a proud reminder of the talent and potential of Filipino youth.

Beyond the awards themselves, Andy Chua’s achievement reflects the value of encouraging young people to think deeply, question assumptions and articulate their ideas with confidence.

Props to her proud parents, seasoned advertising executives Chewy and Ela Chua, for encouraging their daughter to always challenge herself to think deeply and to engage in meaningful conversations. She is also the granddaughter of advertising and media icon Gil Chua of GGC Group Asia. (Contributed story)