Now on its third year, the DRRM Debate Competition, organized by the Environment, Disaster Management, and Emergency Response Office (EDMERO CAMSUR) of the Provincial Government of Camarines Sur, brought together student debaters from across the province for a competitive two-day event held from July 28 to 29, 2025, at the Digital Transformation Center, Capitol Complex, Cadlan, Pili, Camarines Sur.
For Pio Esparagoza, a Grade 9 student from Universidad de Sta. Isabel de Naga and a member of the champion team in the high school division, the competition was more than just a platform to improve skills in debate—it became an eye-opening experience that allowed him to engage with real and relevant issues, especially the importance of DRRM in Camarines Sur.
When asked about the importance of involving the youth in DRRM discussions, Esparagoza eloquently answered, “Igwa po baga kitang sinasabi na ‘Ang Kabataan ang Pag-asa ng Bayan.’ Nangangaipuhan po talaga na kitang mga kaakian dapat aram ta na ang nangayayaring kalamidad sa satuyang probinsya [asin] an sitwasyon na naeeksperincia kan satong mga kahimanwa para sa sunod na henerayon kita naman an malingkod sa satong probinsya, kita man an maayos kan problema.”
Official Result
College Division
Champion: Ateneo De Nage University
1st Runner Up: Local Government Unit of Ocampo
2nd Runner Up: Baao Community College
High School Division
Champion: Universida de Sta. Isabel
1st Runner Up: St. Joseph School
2nd Runner Up: University of Saint Anthony
Congratulations to all the incredible student debaters—not just for winning, but for showing your impressive public speaking and critical thinking skills, and for actively immersing yourselves in the importance of disaster risk reduction and management!
Source: Province of Camarines Sur