by Ms. Ralvielyn Caballes
In the recently concluded Central Visayas-Hybrid Speech Contest held on July 29, 2023, at Sacred Heart School – Ateneo de Cebu, Senior High student Gabriel Samson from Grade 12 Animo emerged victorious, clinching the first-place award. The theme of the competition, “How does Leon Kilat’s magic of heroism live in today’s modern-day heroes?” challenged participants to find connections between historical heroism, exemplified by Leon Kilat, and the contemporary heroes who continue to shape the world in the 21st century. Gabriel Samson, under the guidance of his coach, Ms. Ralvielyn Caballes along with the dedicated executive members of The Gavel Club Ateneo de Cebu, delivered a compelling and insightful speech that resonated with the judges and audience alike.
The written speeches submitted by the contestants were carefully evaluated. The announcement of qualifiers on July 22, 2023, heightened the anticipation leading up to the contest proper on July 29, 2023. Gabriel Samson displayed eloquence and insight during his speech, leaving a mark on the minds of both judges and audiences. As the event ended, the awarding ceremony on August 19, 2023, marked the culmination of the participants’ hard work and dedication, with the first-place award serving as a recognition of Gabriel Samson’s exceptional public speaking skills and profound reflection on the enduring magic of heroism in the contemporary world.
