By Chelsea Marie Sermonia, BA Communications 4, Centralian Link Intern

In a captivating clash of intellect, the Prosecutors Debate Organization of Central Philippine University and the San Agustin Debate League of the University of San Agustin engaged in a friendly debate match at the Alumni Promenade Concert Park last January 24, 2024. The focal point was the proposition: “Let it be resolved that SHS programs shall be dissolved within SUCs and LUCs.”

Amid the clash of ideologies, the debaters examined whether Senior High School (SHS) programs should be abolished within State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) and Local Universities and Colleges (LUCs). The implications of this resolution were profound, delving into issues of educational strategy, resource allocation, and the overall trajectory of tertiary education.

The proposition raised the crucial question of whether SHS programs genuinely acted as catalysts for individual and societal progress within the higher education landscape. Advocates contended that dissolving SHS programs within these institutions would create a more specialized and focused academic environment, streamlining resources and improving education quality. On the opposing side, debaters emphasized the social inclusivity and broader educational access provided by SHS programs. The battle wasn’t just about words; it was a clash of perspectives that potentially shaped the past and future of education policy.

The CPU’s Prosecutors Debate Organization is made up of Sam Isaac Alog (1st Speaker), Joniel Jay Villorente (2nd Speaker), Kent Alfe Alvarez (3rd Speaker), Richard Luis Lee (Alternative Speaker), Paul Vincent Tirador, Mabeereck Ebol, Wrency Mallo, and Kayla Gerardino (Researchers), together by their adviser, Ms. Jeannie Palencia.

The adjudicators are composed of Mr. Sebastian Mickel Evidente, Mr. Frederick Jardenil, with Mr. Daryl T. Lutero serving as the chief adjudicator, and the moderator being Mr. Karl Louise Sondia. The event was organized by the CPU SHS Debate Team and was documented by the CPU TV Channel.

The audience at the Alumni Promenade Concert Park witnessed firsthand the eloquence and analytical prowess of these debaters. The event delivered an intellectual spectacle, leaving spectators pondering the historical and future significance of SHS programs within the context of SUCs and LUCs.