JCI Manila Revives Public Speaking and Debate Team

Leadership begins with the courage to speak.

In a milestone moment for leadership development and member engagement, JCI Manila proudly marked the revival of its Public Speaking and Debate Team — a flagship initiative under the leadership of JCI Manila President Edison Ke, reinforcing his vision of empowering members through communication, leadership, and critical thinking.

The revival signals more than the return of an interest group.

It represents the rebuilding of a platform where future leaders can sharpen one of their most important tools: their voice.

Held during the second LIV DRIVEN Pitstop, the launch brought together members, aspiring speakers, and guests for an evening dedicated to confidence-building, learning, and healthy discourse. The initiative forms part of JCI Manila’s broader leadership development programs under its Training and Business Development efforts, aligned with the organization’s commitment to creating transformative learning opportunities for members.

The highlight of the evening was the official induction and donning of jackets for the newly formed JCI Manila Debate Team — a symbolic moment that marked the rebirth of a program designed to cultivate eloquent leaders, persuasive communicators, and confident changemakers.

Adding excitement to the launch was an engaging 3 vs 3 Mock Debate Exhibition featuring DSG Mark Escay, RSDD Clarence Santos, Comm. Carlos Mattus, and Comm. Charles De Belen.

The exhibition quickly transformed the room into a battleground of ideas as participants exchanged compelling arguments, quick rebuttals, and moments of humor that showcased not only their debating skills but also the camaraderie and brotherhood within JCI Manila.

The mock debate demonstrated that debate is not merely about winning arguments.

It is about understanding perspectives, thinking critically under pressure, and communicating with purpose.

Complementing the exhibition was the “Public Speaking 101” workshop facilitated by RSDD Caloy Capacillo, who guided participants through the fundamentals of effective communication, stage presence, and audience engagement.

Members were introduced to practical techniques on delivering impactful speeches, controlling nerves, and speaking with authenticity — essential skills not only inside JCI but also in business, leadership, and everyday life.

The evening also highlighted inter-chapter collaboration as members from JCI Makati Princess Urduja joined in support of the program launch, further strengthening ties and shared learning among young leaders. Their participation added prestige and energy to the event, reinforcing the spirit of collaboration within the JCI movement.

For JCI Manila, the revival of the Debate Team comes at a meaningful time.

As the chapter continues to push its LEAD BEYOND vision for 2026, the initiative creates another avenue for members to grow beyond traditional leadership roles — equipping them with the confidence to influence, inspire, and create impact through communication.

Because leadership is not only measured by projects completed or titles held.

Sometimes, leadership begins with a speech.

A conversation.

A debate.

And the courage to stand up and be heard.

With the return of the JCI Manila Public Speaking and Debate Team, a new generation of voices is ready to rise.