AJHS debaters advance to PSDC 2026 National Open Octofinals

The team composed of Ateneo de Manila Junior High School (AJHS) debaters Felix Saludar (10–Pongracz) & Thirdy Santiago (10–Sitjar) achieved a notable national milestone by advancing to the National Open Octofinals of the Philippine Schools Debating Championship (PSDC) 2026, held at Ateneo de Manila University from 4-7 December 2025. The tournament was organized by the Ateneo Debate Society.

Advancing to the National Open Octofinals is a highly competitive national achievement, signifying a Top 32 finish among more than 150 debate teams from over 50 schools and institutions across the country. Only teams that demonstrate consistent excellence throughout the preliminary rounds qualify for the elimination stages, making the AJHS team’s progression a distinguished national-level recognition, though not a podium finish.

The PSDC 2026 employed the British Parliamentary debating format, challenging participants to debate a wide range of motions while demonstrating critical thinking, persuasive speaking, teamwork, and adaptability across multiple rounds.

In addition to the octofinalist team, two other AJHS pairs showcased commendable performance, resilience, and endurance throughout the four-day national competition: Benj Castro (10–Realino) & Dylan Lim (9–Gelabert), as well as Adi Serrano (10–Sitjar) & Luigi Lastimosa (10–Spinola).

The AJHS debaters were guided and prepared by their coaches, Ms. Claire Denise R. Ramirez, Ms. Leah Joy Rivera, and Mrs. Gabriela Andrea Bien G. "Yela" Lagunzad-Buenaventura, whose mentorship played a vital role in the teams’ success.

This achievement highlights AJHS’s continued commitment to academic excellence, critical discourse, and competitive debating on the national stage.