University of Luzon Alliance of Justice Elevates Discourse at Provincial Debate Seminar

The University of Luzon proudly represented its commitment to intellectual excellence at the annual Pangasinan Debate Seminar 2K25. Held on November 22, the seminar was a collaborative initiative hosted by the Speech and Debate Guild of PHINMA-UPang, known as SPEED-UP, in partnership with the esteemed Pangasinan Masonic Lodge No. 56. The event successfully convened Senior High School and College students from across the province, serving as a dynamic platform to introduce the thriving community of debaters dedicated to cultivating the art of intellectual argumentation and principled discourse. This gathering underscored the crucial role of structured debate in refining critical thinking and verbal prowess among the region’s youth.

The University of Luzon’s participation was spearheaded by its dedicated student organization, the Alliance of Justice. Their presence was a source of great pride, affirming the institution’s role as a key contributor to the province’s academic and competitive environment. The seminar was a pivotal step for the Alliance of Justice, setting the stage for forthcoming engagements, including the anticipated Pangasinan Debate Tournament. Such events serve as a powerful reminder to Luzonians of the necessity to uphold the tradition of constructive intellectual engagement, fostering a new generation of Pangasinenseng Debatistas defined by integrity and prowess in their fields of study and beyond.

The atmosphere of the seminar was highly engaging, marked by a robust exchange of ideas and spirited discussion. Participants benefited from mentorship and networking opportunities with seasoned debaters, reinforcing the regional community’s commitment to rigorous, evidence-based dialogue. The commitment demonstrated by all attendees reflects the enduring value placed on intellectual honesty and the capacity for reasoned persuasion, which are vital characteristics for future leaders and professionals. This enthusiastic participation bodes well for the continued growth of public speaking and critical analysis skills across the University of Luzon and the wider province.

The initiatives promoted through the Pangasinan Debate Seminar and the subsequent activities of the Alliance of Justice align directly with several global mandates for sustainable development. Specifically, these activities resonate with Sustainable Development Goal 4: Quality Education, by fostering inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities through the mastery of critical thinking, effective communication, and intellectual discipline inherent in debate. Furthermore, the commitment to fair argumentation and respecting opposing viewpoints contributes significantly to Sustainable Development Goal 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, by advocating for effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions at all levels and promoting the peaceful resolution of conflict through dialogue. Finally, the successful collaboration between the academic institution (UL), the student guild (SPEED-UP), and the local civic organization (Pangasinan Masonic Lodge No. 56) directly embodies the spirit of Sustainable Development Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals, demonstrating how local organizations can work together to achieve common educational and societal objectives.