Date: September 2, 2025
In celebration of “Buwan ng ASEAN: Sama-sama sa Pag-unlad,” Samar State University’s (SSU) Office of International Affairs proudly staged the thought-provoking ASEAN Debate 2025 on the afternoon of August 27, 2025, at the Convention Center. The intellectually charged event was facilitated by Dr. Art Roncesvalles, with a distinguished panel of judges composed of Prof. Jhonil C. Bajado, Head, SSU Archives and Museum, Prof. Glory Grace G. Floretes, Social Studies professor, College of Education and Prof. Christian Jan L. Nuñez, Social Studies professor, College of Arts and Sciences.
The contest brought together three dynamic teams from the College of Education, College of Arts and Sciences, and College of Industrial Technology. Following the Modified Asian Parliamentary Format, debaters engaged in spirited exchanges that tested their logic, rhetoric, and ability to think on their feet.
After an intense clash of arguments and sharp rebuttals, the College of Education team—composed of Marlon A. Baldago, Kyle A. Quiniñez, and Dan Johan T. Maribojoc—emerged as champions. Their compelling delivery and well-structured arguments earned them the top spot. The College of Arts and Sciences team, represented by Rain Hendrick Muñoz, Paul Jervin Ladesma, and Khyle Meca Biteng, delivered an impressive performance to secure second place. Meanwhile, the College of Industrial Technology’s team—Ben Jezreel Cabatuan, April Joy Dacula, and Roselyn Velasco—showed admirable teamwork and determination, landing in third place.
Special recognition was also given to outstanding individuals: Paul Jervin C. Ladesma received the Best Debater Award, while Kyle A. Quiniñez was honored as the Best Speaker.
Beyond the competition, the ASEAN Debate highlighted the importance of critical dialogue, cultural understanding, and intellectual exchange in fostering a deeper sense of regional identity. By sharpening students’ debating skills while promoting the ideals of unity in diversity, the event stood as a meaningful contribution to strengthening ASEAN awareness within the SSU community.
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