Understanding the critical role of public speaking and presentation skills in student success, the Los Baños Toastmasters Club (LBTMC) in partnership with the UPLB Learning Resource Center (LRC) and Area 2 of Division K, District 75, organized the workshop “S.P.E.A.K. WITH CONFIDENCE: Mastering the Art of Public Speaking.” The event took place on Dec. 2, 2023, at the Makiling Ballroom Hall, Student Union Building. 

Aimed at UPLB students, the one-day workshop focused on enhancing communication skills, helping participants improve their public speaking abilities, and navigating today’s fast-paced world. The program included strategies to manage public speaking anxiety, structure spontaneous speeches, and develop unique storytelling techniques.

Public speaking was found to be among the top five necessities for student success based on 2023 UPLB Students’ Academic Needs Survey. 

Innovative learning through “Bahay-bahayan”

The workshop introduced a unique learning method called Bahay-bahayan Playable Theater Design for Public Speaking which was created by Assistant Professor Kate Palma-de Jesus from the Department of Humanities (DHUM). This approach is based on a traditional Filipino game and involves role-playing to simulate real-life speaking situations. 

Toastmasters members assumed the roles of Facimuno, or tribal and community leaders, including Datu, Chief Maharlika, Chief Babaylan, Chief Timawa, Chief Namamahay, Chief Sagigilid, Maguinoo, Umalohokan, and Lukayo. Meanwhile, the participants, referred to as kalaro, took on the roles of community members. 

The play was set in the 9th Century in Pailah, the ancient Pila, Laguna. Each kalaro was grouped into different ‘balai,’ derived from the Malay word balay, meaning “house.” This innovative method offered a hands-on experience in a historical context and enriched the learning process.

The Facimuno: Learning by listening

As Facimunos, the Toastmasters members led a series of lectures that provided insights and techniques in public speaking.

Palma-de Jesus, who also serves as the vice president for membership of LBTMC, delivered a presentation on “The Power of Positive Thinking.” In her discussion, she delved into the profound impact of cultivating a positive mindset on personal development, communication, and overall well-being. 

Jef Menguin, a Toastmaster and the director of Area K2, addressed the topic of “Identifying Speech Fear Sources” and provided insights to empower individuals in overcoming their public speaking anxieties. 

He emphasized that although eliminating fear might be unrealistic, it is still possible to minimize or manage fears. Menguin added that “the goal is not to be fearless, but to fear less” and encouraged the participants to adopt strategies and mindset shifts that will enable them to fear less and navigate challenges with greater resilience.

Christian Paulo Caganong, a member of the Dasmariñas City Toastmasters Club, delivered a lecture on “Techniques to Reduce Stress.” In his presentation, he emphasized that public speakers should regard their speeches and narratives as valuable gifts to the audience. This viewpoint encourages a shift in mindset of viewing the act of public speaking not as a source of stress but as an opportunity to share insights and connect with the audience.

Sheryl Edd Hermosa-Ebron, a university extension associate at LRC and vice president for education of LBTMC, shared her expertise on “Crafting Compelling Narratives.” Her session emphasized the integration of sensory details for immersive storytelling, exploring effective characterization, and selecting the optimal point of view. She advised the participants “to start the speech with a hook and end with a bang.” Attendees were offered practical tools to elevate their storytelling prowess to ensure that their narratives leave a lasting impact on the audience.

Elizabeth Segura-Krueger, an assistant professor at DHUM and a distinguished Toastmaster, delivered a session on effective public speaking. She provided her expertise on three crucial aspects: “Brainstorming Quickly”’ or generating ideas efficiently for speeches; “‘Organizing Key Points”’ which explored strategies for structuring content coherently; and “Concluding Thoughtfully,” which suggested insights on crafting impactful and memorable conclusions.

Marki Isureña, the vice president for public affairs of LBTMC, talked about the art of “Giving and Receiving Effective Evaluation.” In this presentation, participants were offered valuable insights into the constructive process of providing feedback to speakers and, conversely, receiving feedback for personal growth. He emphasized the importance of offering evaluations that are not only constructive but also motivating and supportive.

Lester Avan Andrada, the president of LBTMC, held a session on “Powerful Diction and Articulation.” In his lecture, he discussed the nuances of effective verbal expression, focusing on the clarity and precision of words. He delved into the importance of modulating one’s voice, managing speech tempo, strategically incorporating pauses, and utilizing silence for emphasis.

Roberto Bautista, a distinguished Toastmaster and former president of LBTMC, provided an insightful and practical session on “How to Deliver a Toast Speech/Speech for Special Occasions.” Bautista shared techniques for structuring a toast speech, including the appropriate tone, style, and content for various occasions. He reminded the attendees to always capture the essence of the event, convey warmth and sincerity, and engage their audience effectively.

The Kalaro: Learning by doing

Following expert-led lectures and practical exercises, participants from UPLB took center stage by presenting speeches in impromptu and storytelling contests. The contestants showcased their prowess in both prepared and spontaneous speeches, facing a panel of experts who evaluated them on criteria such as speech development, effectiveness, value, physical presence, voice modulation, manner, appropriateness, and correctness.

A distinctive segment called ‘Tilamsik ng Diwa,’ an impromptu speech contest, provided contestants from different ‘balays’ with an opportunity to engage in friendly competition and encouraged the practical application of acquired skills. The afternoon session also featured a storytelling contest where participants demonstrated the impactful use of narratives in public speaking by delivering speeches on Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs.

To ensure a holistic learning experience, the workshop concluded with an insightful evaluation session led by Isureña and Menguin who emphasized continuous improvement in communication skills. The afternoon session provided a competitive yet supportive environment that allowed participants to apply their newly acquired knowledge, deliver speeches to a live audience, and receive real-time feedback—creating a balance between learning and performance.

The event wrapped up with closing remarks from Marcelina Miranda, Officer-In-Charge of the UPLB LRC, who appreciated the efforts of all involved and emphasized the importance of such skill-building opportunities.

The workshop is part of a long-standing partnership between the LRC and LBTMC. They conduct regular S.P.E.A.K. sessions every first and third Monday of the month at the LRC, from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM. These sessions offer continuous learning opportunities in public speaking and communication skills. For more details and to register for these sessions, click here.

Currently, the LBTMC is working towards the re-establishment of a student organization at UPLB named The Eloquent Gavel Club. Student members of LBTMC are seeking interested and bona fide UPLB students to form the charter group. 

Those interested in becoming members of the Los Baños Toastmasters Club or charter members of The Eloquent Gavel Club may find additional information and updates on their Facebook page. (Jonel S. Biscocho and Sheryl Edd P. Hermosa-Ebron)