VSU Debate Society makes international mark with 1st-runner-up, semifinal finish

Marking its debut on the international stage, the VSU Debate Society carved its name into history as two teams earned both the 1st runner-up and semi-finalist position in the 2nd Association of Universities of Asia and the Pacific (AUAP) Student English Debate Competition (SEDC) held at the Rizal Technological University on April 8-9, 2025.

Lim Antonio, Den Michael Malayo, and Val Lucero, under the guidance of Mr. Al Franjon Villaroya from the Department of Philosophy and Social Sciences (DPSS) won the 1st runner-up title at the competition. They received eight hundred US dollars (800 USD) and medals.

On the other hand, Karl Tayoni and his teammates, Angel Fernandico and Lloyd Sotto, under the supervision of Mr. Beljun Enaya, also from DPSS, reached the semi-finals and were given certificates.

The AUAP Student English Debate Competition (SEDC) is a competition wherein students develop essential skills through teaching them critical thinking, attentive listening, confidence in public speaking and expanding their perspectives on global issues. 

Participants explored various debate topics which includes LGBT+ inclusive sex education in universities and institutions, assessments of standardized tests, the effects of technology on cognitive capacities, and sustainability of the organic farming industry.

The prestigious competition was initiated by the renowned institutions in Asia-Pacific such as NIMS University in India, in collaboration with the Association of Universities of Asia and the Pacific (AUAP), the Master's Institute Development Academic and Seminary (MIDAS), and Siam University in Bangkok, Thailand.

Since its establishment on July 28, 1995, AUAP has become a key organization that promotes exchange and cooperation between its university members. 

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) recognizes AUAP as an organization which dedicates itself to supporting higher education advancement through regional cooperation and university teamwork in the Asia-Pacific area.

In an interview, Lucero and Sotto, both first time competitors, expressed their doubts, inexperience and anxieties about their capabilities as they were among the youngest in their teams

Furthermore, they also shared the team's journey to the international stage, their preparations, arguments presented and impressions on the international debate competition.

When asked about the importance of debate, Val shared,”debate is not just a skill or talent, it becomes an instrument of peace-making and advancement”.

The two concluded by expressing their gratitude to the university and recognized that becoming delegates for VSU at this distinguished competition was a privilege.

“The knowledge that Visayas State University stood behind us during the competition gave us encouragement. The training sessions organized by our mentors and the unwavering belief and support of the university in our potential truly made a difference”, they added.

This article is aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 4: Quality Education, and SDG 17: Partnerships for Goals.

• Next