The College of Engineering (COE) continues to prove that its students are as sharp with their words as they are with their technical designs. In a recent display of versatility and critical thinking, two of our very own represented the University of the Cordilleras Speech and Debate Society (SPADES) at the prestigious CIDA Novice Cup, held online from February 21–22.

Among the participants were two of our own engineering students, who balanced their technical studies to represent the University of the Cordilleras Speech and Debate Society (SPADES).

Sheldan B. Escano , from Electronics Engineering Department (ECE), alongside teammate Crisjo B. Cadsap, delivered a steady performance throughout the tournament. The duo successfully ranked 15th Open Breaking Team out of the 84 competing pairs, eventually concluding their run as Open Quarterfinalists.

Additionally, Paolo N. Jacalan, a Civil Engineering(CE) students participated as part of the UC B team with Ian Roi M. Wagtingan. Their involvement highlights the dedication of our students to developing communication and critical thinking skills outside of the classroom.

While we highlight our engineering champions, we also celebrate the collective success of the UC delegation:

• Mario A. Oriana III (Forensic Science 1): Served with distinction on the Core Adjudication Panel as a Chief Adjudicator, playing a vital role in crafting motions and overseeing the tournament’s execution.
• Crisjo B. Cadsap (Juris Doctor 1): Open Quarterfinalist and 15th Open Breaking Team member.
• Ian Roi M. Wagtingan (Behavioral Science 3): Competed with UC B.
• Nicolea G. Wanden (Forensic Accounting 1) & Arthur Quincy C. Herman (Fine Arts 1): Represented UC C with exemplary spirit and dedication.

Congratulations to our student-engineers for proving that logic and communication go hand-in-hand!

_{Photos by University of the Cordilleras Speech and Debate Society (SPADES)}