EduAsiaNews, Philipina – The Rhetoricians: The UPLB Speech Communication Organization will hold its annual event, Magniloquence 2026, an extemporaneous speaking competition for high school students, on October 24, 2026, Saturday, from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Dioscoro L. Umali Lobby, UPLB.
As one of The Rhetoricians’ flagship events, Magniloquence provides high school students with an avenue to develop and exercise their communication skills while engaging with pressing societal issues. The competition challenges young speakers to formulate informed perspectives, articulate their ideas clearly, and discuss concerns affecting various sectors of Philippine society.
Centered on the theme, “The Force of Our Voice: Speaking for the Nation,” Magniloquence 2026 emphasizes the role of young people and student speakers in engaging with national concerns. In the current political and social landscape of the country, Magniloquence recognizes communication as a powerful means of raising awareness, expressing diverse perspectives, and encouraging accountability.
This year’s Magniloquence will consist of two parts: a Speech Seminar and the Extemporaneous Speech Competition proper.
The Speech Seminar will focus on public speaking and extemporaneous speech. It will be facilitated by Assistant Professor Kahrein Salvador from the Communication Division of the Department of Humanities, College of Arts and Sciences. The seminar will provide high school participants, teachers, coaches, UPLB students, and other audience members with foundational knowledge and practical techniques for preparing and delivering an effective extemporaneous speech.
Following the seminar, the high school student participants will compete in the Extemporaneous Speech Competition proper. Participants will be presented with relevant issues and topics that tackle contemporary concerns regarding the country’s natural environment, economic context, social development, and governance.
While the competition is specifically intended for high school students, UPLB students are welcome to attend the Speech Seminar and observe the competition as audience members. Their participation provides an opportunity to learn from the speaker, gain insights into effective public speaking, and engage with diverse perspectives on contemporary issues.
For registration, participation, partnership, or other event-related inquiries, interested individuals and organizations may message The Rhetoricians through their Facebook page.
The Rhetoricians: The UPLB Speech Communication Organization serves as a training ground for young speakers. They lead regular skill development activities to help shape outstanding communicators. The organization also conducts events and activities that engage communities beyond UPLB.
