Philippine National Bank (PNB), in cooperation with the Department of Education (DepEd), the 10 Rotary Districts, and the Rotary Club of Bagumbayan-Manila, held the 12th Voice of Our Youth (VOY) National Impromptu Speaking Competition National Finals last February 22, 2013 at the Tanghalang Yaman Lahi, Emilio Aguinaldo College Sports and Cultural Center.

Out of 18 high school students from various schools nationwide, Ms. Maria Dominique A. Lucenario of Miriam College High School emerged as National Champion, receiving the grand prize of P50,000. Mr. Jose Antonio T. Sison of Ateneo de Manila High School was named National Runner-up, with a cash prize of P40,000.

The event was graced by Director Jocelyn DR Andaya of the Bureau of Secondary Education (BSE, DepEd) and District Governor Ismael G. Mercado of Rotary District 3810. The distinguished board of judges consisted of Mr. Teodoro L. Locsin, Jr., Columnist of Business Mirror and Host of ANC’s Teditorial (Chairman of the board of judges); Dr. Victor C. Manabat, Dean of Saint Michael’s College of Laguna-School of Business Administration; Ms. Phylita Joy G. Virata, Founder and Director of Repertory Children’s Theater; Mr. Ludendorffo T. Decenteceo, Acting Chair of UP Diliman-Department of Speech Communication and Theater Arts; and Ms. Germaine A. Chuabio, 2011 Champion of National Public Speaking Competition, English Speaking Union.

The VOY started in 1989 as a joint undertaking of the Department of Education, Philippine National Bank, and the 10 Rotary Districts nationwide, with the Rotary Club of Bagumbayan-Manila as the National Coordinator. The contest seeks to provide a forum for the promotion of effective spoken English. It is also an opportunity for the Filipino youth to demonstrate their public speaking skills through comprehensive and challenging levels of competition.