1st Filipino world universities debate champs lauded in 2 Senate resolutions

MANILA, Philippines — The first Filipinos to win the World Universities Debating Championship have been hailed in two separate Senate resolutions.

Senators Manuel “Lito” Lapid and Risa Hontiveros lodged Senate Resolution Nos. 412 and 417, respectively, congratulate and commend Ateneo de Manila University students David Africa and Tobi Leung on their victory.

Lapid’s resolution was filed on Monday, while Hontiveros’ was lodged on Tuesday.

“In the history of the competition, this win means so much not only to us as a nation but all the other Asian countries that have tried to bag the elusive title. This is a win for the Philippines and our fellow Asian neighbors,” Lapid’s resolution stated.

“This incredible achievement of the Ateneo de Manila University students Africa and Leung in the competition [demonstrates] the remarkable ability of Filipinos to bounce back and thrive despite heartbreaking losses. It also perfectly demonstrates that the Filipino perseverance is like no other,” it continued.

Hontiveros likewise lauded the duo’s victory, noting its possible impact among Filipinos.

“Their unprecedented achievement may inspire a generation of Filipino world-class debaters and bring the art of debate in the country to new and greater heights,” Hontiveros’ resolution read.

“A healthy and thriving culture of debate feeds a working and flourishing democracy where a free exchange of ideas empowers its citizens to demand a government that is open to criticism, unthreatened by transparency and accountability, and intolerant of corruption and violence,” it added.

Africa and Leung won the World Universities Debating Championship in Spain on January 4.

READ: PH team wins World Universities Debating Championship

The Filipino team became the first from Southeast Asia and the second Asian team to win the title in the 43-year history of the debating championship.

READ: Palace hails Carlos Yulo’s victory at world championships

je/abc