Proud students from Rizal Technological University (RTU) debated on which is a better compensatory system for the country—a standardized national minimum wage system or the current regional wage system—at Congress TV’s Balitaktakan: Tinig ng Kabataan, a dynamic debate program that highlighted the voices, perspectives, and critical thinking skills of Filipino youth.
The debate was moderated and hosted by House Representative Jude Acidre and Ms. Princess Jordan, in collaboration with RTU’s International Affairs and Linkages Office (IALO) and Congress TV. The program was made possible through the support of Tingog Party List, under the leadership of Rep. Acidre, whose advocacy emphasizes empowering the youth as active contributors to nation-building.
Serving as the main participants were members of the Pandayang Rizalia Oratorical Society, RTU’s official debate team. Known for their excellence in public speaking and argumentation, the team demonstrated high-level skills in critical thinking, persuasive communication, and structured reasoning throughout the competition.
The debate tackled relevant and timely issues affecting the youth and society, providing participants with a platform to articulate well-researched positions and present evidence-based arguments. Each round showcased the debaters’ ability to deliver compelling rebuttals, maintain logical coherence, and engage in respectful discourse despite opposing viewpoints.
Faculty members of the university also served as panel judges in the debate, evaluating participants based on content, organization, delivery, and overall impact. These experts included Asst. Prof. John Benedict Alim and Asst. Prof. Macrina Mutuc, along with Mr. Roy Montales II, an alum of Pandayang Rizalia Oratorical Society.
Students and guests composed the audience, demonstrating strong engagement and attentiveness throughout the activity, indicating the relevance of the issues discussed and the platform’s effectiveness in stimulating intellectual discourse.
“Balitaktakan: Tinig ng Kabataan” underscored the vital role of academic institutions and partner organizations in developing informed, articulate, and socially responsible citizens. By providing a venue for dialogue and expression, the program reinforced the importance of youth participation in addressing societal challenges.
The debate program was also featured on IBC 13 and Congress Digital TV on March 28, 2026, further amplifying the voices of the youth and promoting civic engagement on a national platform.
Through Rizalianos’ participation and the University’s organizing role in “Balitaktakan”, RTU continues to foster inclusive dialogue, intellectual engagement, and youth empowerment, reinforcing its commitment to education with impact.
