The UP Speech Communication Association (UP SPECA) at the University of the Philippines Diliman successfully held Speech Cup 2026, bringing together high school students from across the country for a day of critical reflection and powerful performance.

Anchored on the theme “PAG-ASA NG BAYAN, ALAALA’Y PAGLIKHA”, the event underscored remembrance as a form of resistance against corruption, misinformation, and the distortion of truth.

As one of UP SPECA’s flagship projects, Speech Cup 2026 became a platform for young participants to engage in meaningful discussions on pressing social and national issues through creative and original performances. Students incorporated reflective speeches and intertextual elements to assert the importance of safeguarding the country’s historical memory and transforming it into collective action.

Participating schools included:

– Bataan National High School – Senior High School

– De La Salle Medical and Health Sciences Institute

– Don Bosco Technical Institute of Makati

– Escuela de Sophia of Caloocan Inc.

– College of Saint Anthony SJDM Bulacan Inc.

– Pasay City National High School

– Saint Pedro Poveda College

– San Bartolome High School

– St. Bridget School, Quezon City

– St. Joseph College of Novalices Inc.

– St. Scholastica’s College of Quezon City

– Saint Theresa’s College of Quezon City

– University of Santo Tomas Senior High School

– University of the Philippines Rural High School

Through their performances, the students demonstrated courage, creativity, and a deep awareness of contemporary realities. More than a competition, Speech Cup 2026 stood as a collective affirmation that the youth remained vital keepers of memory — capable of transforming remembrance into informed action and hope for the nation’s future.