The An Lantugi Debate Society at Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) has made a return after a prolonged hiatus, marked by the kickoff of the 1st President Victor C. Cañezo Jr. Debate Cup. The event commenced with a debate and adjudication orientation, along with a mock debate at the University Hostel on November 15.

The debate cup's primary objective is to identify accomplished debaters from various participating schools, including the School of Arts and Sciences (SAS), School of Management and Entrepreneurship (SME), School of Technology and Computer Studies (STCS), School of Teacher's Education (STEd), School of Criminal Justice Education (SCJE), School of Nursing and Health Sciences (SNHS), School of Engineering (SOE), BiPSU Biliran Campus (BiPSU BilCam), and BiPSU Laboratory High School (BiPSU LHS). These selected individuals will go on to represent BiPSU in debate competitions at regional, national, and international levels.

In a welcome message, Mr. Joedel O. Peñaranda, Director for Institutional Planning and a proud alumnus of the debate society, provided insights into the organization's standing. He highlighted past achievements, stating, "BiPSU debate society has always been known as the fastest-growing debate organization in the region and in the wider Visayas area. We were a four-time grand champion in Eastern Visayas, even defeating the University of the Philippines. This is an achievement that we've held dearly for a long time, kaso nga naputol."

BiPSU President Dr. Cañezo also lent his support to the debate cup, emphasizing the university's commitment to enhancing students' knowledge, skills, and attitudes. He stated, "I'm supporting this because, as an academic institution, we basically want to enhance your knowledge, skills, and attitude."

The event featured a mock debate on the motion 'this house allows people sentenced to life imprisonment to choose death penalty.' The opposition team emerged victorious in the oral adjudication led by Atty. Guiller Delfin, securing a one-point margin of 251 points against the affirmative team's 250 points.

Additionally, an exhibition round showcased the adjudication core team debating the motion 'assuming technology exists, this House will give people the opportunity to know their soulmates,' providing a formal demonstration of debate procedures.

Looking ahead, the preliminary rounds are scheduled for November 22 at the University Hostel, where the winning teams will be determined and qualified to advance to the finals.

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