Dela Fuente secures 3rd; Cruz obtains 5th in Extemporaneous Speech

Marieshka Jiles Dela Fuente secured third place in the Junior High School (J.H.S.) Extemporaneous Speech category, delivering her speech on the issue of protecting human creativity amid the rapid growth of artificial intelligence (A.I.). Meanwhile, Chloe Kumi Cruz secured fifth place in the Senior High School (S.H.S.) category.

Ms. Dela Fuente was among eight participants in the competition and was the sixth speaker to present. Although the topic was given on the spot, she was able to organize her thoughts and confidently deliver her speech before the judges.

For Ms. Dela Fuente, the experience was filled with anxiety and nervousness. However, she learned that these emotions do not have to hinder one’s performance when confidence is present.

“As it is my [first] time joining this category I believe that this helped me grow in a way that I was able to express myself more comfortably and confidently,” Ms. Dela Fuente shared.

She also said her confidence was one of the reasons she did well. Even though she felt she could not share all her thoughts, her confidence helped her speak well and get into the competition.

Ms. Dela Fuente also shared that after her competition, she thanked the people who supported her: “God, with his guidance I was able to perform well. And of course, this wouldn’t be possible without the help of Sir Christian, my coach, and my supportive BaCiPriSAns that I was with during trainings. Lastly, my friends and family, even though they had their own priorities, they were able to give all they can to support me.” 

She also thanked her friends and family for their support, emphasizing that they continued to give their time and encouragement despite having their priorities.

Her achievement demonstrates how confidence, preparation and support can help students overcome nervousness and perform well especially when facing challenges, for the time.

Meanwhile, Ms. Cruz, among 11 participants, presented a topic regarding resiliency.

The topic made her think deeply about the challenges and responsibilities that young Filipinos face in today’s world.  Ms. Cruz shared, “It taught me about awareness as a student and member of the youth today.”

The competition also improved her ability to think quickly and organize her thoughts under pressure. She had to come up with her ideas on the spot and deliver them clearly. This helped sharpen her critical-thinking skills.

Ms. Cruz said that the support she received from the people around her made a difference during the competition. She gave thanks to her coach, Mr. Christian Gonzales, as well as her family and friends for always being there encouraging her and believing in her.

Both Ms. Dela Fuente and Ms. Cruz showed that participating in speech is not just about winning or losing. It is also about building confidence, developing critical thinking, and learning to express ideas clearly, even when the situation is stressful.