Spontaneous speakers captivate audience at inter-school impromptu speech competition
Fiery Voices, Flowing Thoughts: Cebu's Inter-School Impromptu Speaking Contest
The stage at the University of Cebu crackled with tension, a single microphone waiting for its star. At 2PM, the room swarmed with a cacophony of nerves and anticipation. No scripts, no retakes, just a battleground for raw intellect and passion.
This was the annual Inter-School Impromptu Speaking Contest, a crucible where Cebu's sharpest young minds were given mere minutes to forge their thoughts into fire. Six duellists, six universities, one shot at immortality.
GLITTERING THE STAGE
Contestants from the University of San Carlos (USC), University of the Philippines Cebu (UP Cebu), University of the Visayas - Main Campus (UV), Cebu Roosevelt Memorial Colleges (CRMC) in Bogo, Cebu Institute of Technology - University (CIT-U), and University of Cebu - Lapu-Lapu and Mandaue (UCLM) took the stage. With nothing but their syntax and fortitude, they grappled with topics ranging from personal values to societal maelstroms.
What ensued was less a contest and more a sociopolitical drama, showcasing shades of spontaneity, unique perspectives, and deeply personal convictions.
THE KING RECLAIMS HIS THRONE
Emerging victorious was David Ryan Sia, a seasoned BS Information Technology student from CIT-U. With his cool demeanor and eloquence, David stood out amidst the chaos - though he admitted the victory had caught him off guard.
"Honestly, I didn't expect to win," he confessed. "Everyone was so good, but maybe the years of experience - debates, speeches, college presentations - helped."
His triumph held a deeper significance. David dedicated the moment to his late mother. "She passed away two years ago," he shared, his eyes shining with unshed tears. "I'm wearing the suit she chose for me. It's like she's still here, watching over me."
ROARING LIKE A LION
Leif Fiel, a fiery political science major from UP Cebu, claimed first runner-up, his blend of insight and authenticity resonating with both judges and audience.
"It feels electrifying," Leif grinned, his eyes sparkling with pride. "Knowing my thoughts and voice are being heard is empowering. It's my truth, shaped by every life experience I've had. Trust it."
Leif's dedication transcended personal circles. "The Filipino people," he asserted firmly. "It's their stories, their struggles, that shaped my voice."
A YOUNG QUEEN LOUGHS
At just 18, USC's Svetlana Cezar captured second runner-up with surprising agility - a feat she hadn't anticipated when she first registered.
"I didn't think I'd even win within my school," she laughed playfully. "When I got here and saw all these amazing, inspiring people, it became more than just a school requirement. It became personal."
Her speech focused on the children of Batang Pinangga, advocating for society's most vulnerable. "What helped me today was speaking from the heart," she confided. "When you believe in what you're saying, people listen."
Though her mother couldn't attend - she was with Svetlana's younger sister at prom - her spirit hovered. Svetlana held up a photo and declared, "This is all for her. She's the reason I care so deeply about charity and helping others. She's the kindest person I know."
STROKES OF GENIUS, BRUSH OF UNIVERSITY OF CEBU'S PROF.
The event was meticulously orchestrated by University of Cebu professor Dennis Olofernes, who praised the contestants for their courage and clarity.
"This contest isn't just about who speaks best," he said, his gaze sweeping over the audience. "It's about who can turn thoughts into truth under pressure - and speak with heart." 🌟
- The contestants, hailing from universities such as the University of San Carlos, University of the Philippines Cebu, University of the Visayas, Cebu Roosevelt Memorial Colleges, Cebu Institute of Technology - University, and University of Cebu - Lapu-Lapu and Mandaue, stood on the stage at the University of Cebu.
- Contestants like David Ryan Sia from CIT-U, Leif Fiel from UP Cebu, Svetlana Cezar from USC, and others, faced off in a sociopolitical drama, grappling with topics related to education, personal growth, and societal issues.
- Learning and self-development were at the forefront of this event, as contestants overcame their nerves, demonstrating their proficiency in crafting convincing speeches under pressure.
- Personal growth and learning extended beyond the contest, as evidenced by the emotional tributes David and Svetlana paid to their late mothers during their speeches, while Leif spoke of his dedication to the Filipino people.
- The Inter-School Impromptu Speaking Contest, expertly organized by University of Cebu professor Dennis Olofernes, served as a platform for education and self-development, promoting the importance of clear communication, heartfelt expression, and the ability to think quickly and intelligently under pressure.
