A math teacher at the Philippine Science High School (PSHS) System-Western Visayas Campus has emerged as champion at the Virtual Public Speaking Competition during Junior Chamber International (JCI) Asia-Pacific Conference 2021 hosted virtually by Taichung, Taiwan on Aug. 20-21.

The PSHS congratulated Special Science Teacher 1 Sandro Silverio for bagging the award.

It noted that JCI representatives from eight countries, including Bangladesh, Indonesia, Philippines, Australia, Hong Kong, Japan, Mongolia, and Malaysia participated in the competition.

Each representative was given the opportunity to exercise and showcase their oratorical abilities while tackling relevant global issues, it said.

Among the topics during the preliminary and final rounds were:

-JCI’s tagline of Developing Leaders for a Changing World is more relevant than ever to become the foremost global network of enterprising young leaders and attract more talented members and

-“Even as the world begins to return to normal, in every industry, across all sectors, employees still need more support for mental health in the workplace.

"I actually settled with the title “National Champion” way back in college because I thought that the international stage is not meant for me. Little did I know that the Creator of this universe is preparing me for something bigger. That one day, I would cast myself like a stone thrown across the waters to create ripples that would inspire others to do the same,” Silverio wrote on Facebook on August 24.

The JCI public speaking champion recalled that he had fever just hours prior to the competition.

"I almost lost my voice. I just prayed that night, and I told God, “Lord, I know indi mo ko dire pagpakahuy-an (I know that you’re not going to put me to shame,” Silverio said.

"Lo and behold, Abba heard my prayer. I was fever-free when I woke up the next morning. He gave me just enough strength to deliver my piece,” he added.

With his feat, Silverio will participate in the JCI World Congress Public Speaking Competition in Johannesburg, South Africa in November.

“His achievement amidst the pandemic is an inspiration to the Pisay community, especially to the scholars who look up to their teachers pursuing excellence amidst this challenging time," said Dr. Shena Faith Ganela, PSHS-WVC campus director.

Silverio who graduated Summa Cum Laude from West Visayas State University teaches Mathematics in PSHS-WVC in Jaro, Iloilo City.

A non-profit organization, JCI aims to provide development opportunities that empower young people to create positive change. Its members are young active citizens aged 18 to 40 who are engaged and committed to creating impact in their communities.

JCI has more than 100 national member organizations worldwide.