Since its launch in 2022, the Husay ng SokSay: An Inter-High School Competition has become a leading venue for sparking interest in the social sciences among young Filipino high school students. What began as an initiative has now reached over 100 schools nationwide, with 74 high schools joining in 2024. More than just the numbers, the competition has evolved into a meaningful space where students explore how social sciences can address pressing issues, sharpen critical thinking, and inspire collective action in society.

The 4th Husay ng SokSay, organized by the UPLB Sociology Society, continues this mission by centering Filipino lived experiences in social inquiry. Celebrating its 50th year since the establishment, the organization remains committed to promoting the relevance of social sciences to everyday realities. This year’s theme, “Mga Kwentong Buhay: Hamunin ang mga Naratibo, Balangkasin ang Katotohanan,” challenges students to critically examine the stories that shape society and to question dominant narratives often accepted by the society as truth.

In the time marked by misinformation, stereotypes, and oversimplified explanations, the competition offers a timely introduction to sociological thinking. It encourages participants to connect these social issues and structures to daily life and uncover deeper social conditions tied to class, gender, culture, power, and inequality. By grounding analysis in personal and community stories, the event highlights that truth is not singular but shaped by context and perspective.

Open to both Junior and Senior High School students, the competition features diverse categories such as Essay Writing, Speech, Mobile Phone Photography, and Short Film Making. These formats allow participants to creatively express social science concepts—whether through arguments, narratives, visual storytelling, or cinematic interpretation—merging creativity with critical thought.

Beyond the contests, Husay ng SokSay seeks to nurture social awareness and responsibility among the youth. It pushes participants to reflect on whose voices are amplified, whose are silenced, and why certain narratives endure. In doing so, it underscores the vital role of social sciences in understanding social realities and inspiring collective action.

The 4th Husay ng SokSay stands as proof of the power of youth voices in reshaping narratives and questioning dominant truths. By rooting discussions in lived experiences, the event aims to spark empathy, critical reflection, and a deeper appreciation of social sciences. Ultimately, it affirms that understanding society begins with listening to the stories of the people who live it, while empowering students to confidently share ideas and engage in collective dialogue.

If you want to participate in the 4th Husay ng SokSay competition, you may register until February 13, 2026, at the Husay ng SokSay-UPLB Sociology Society Official Facebook Page using this link: https://tinyurl.com/4thHusayngSokSayRegistration.