Speechcraft in the Philippines

Young Rotarians in the Philippines are among those benefiting from the Toastmasters Speechcraft program. Members of Toastmasters International and Rotary International teamed up on a Speechcraft workshop that drew 50 Rotaractors—a membership type for young adults—from throughout the Philippines.

In February 2020, Toastmasters and Rotary announced a strategic alliance to benefit the members of both organizations. In the spirit of that connection, the Pilipinas Rotaract Multi-District Information Organization (MDIO) and Toastmasters District 75 in the Philippines decided to partner on a Speechcraft workshop. The goal of the eight-week session, held in September and October of last year, was to help Rotaractors in the country improve their communication and leadership skills.

“The bridge for collaboration between Toastmasters and Rotary/Rotaract is in full bloom,” said Toastmasters District 75 Director Marilyn Legaspi. “This Speechcraft program marks a major step to develop stronger ties in transforming the lives of our members and our communities.”

Louie De Real, chair of the Pilipinas Rotaract MDIO, added, “Public speaking is one of the most critical skills, in Rotaract and in our personal and professional lives.”

District 75 members presented the workshop virtually. Toastmasters coaches worked one-on-one with Rotaractors in online breakout rooms. A virtual graduation ceremony was held October 31, and it featured speeches from the eight top Rotaract speakers selected by the Toastmasters.

Aletta Rochat, a Toastmasters International Director from South Africa, said the workshop was particularly timely.

“In this world of COVID-19, we need people who can communicate their passions and ideas. In the process, they bring positive impact on families, companies, communities, and countries,” said Rochat, the guest speaker at the graduation. “Each completer of this Speechcraft program is now in a better position to make even more impact in our world.”

Rotaractors who completed the program said they value the skills they gained. Antonio Lustina, President of the Rotaract Club of Legazpi West, notes that strong public speakers can inspire and influence others.

“This training has reminded us to use our voice for things that matter,” he said.

Christian De Borja, Past President of the Rotaract Club of San Pedro East, added, “Now I feel more confident that I can stand in front of a crowd and deliver impactful speeches with power and conviction.”

This is an edited and condensed version of an article by Paul Armhel Escobar, Leadership and Development Associate for the Pilipinas Rotaract MDIO. The original article appeared in the November issue of Rotary Philippines magazine.

Go to the Toastmasters International website to learn more about the Rotary/Toastmasters strategic alliance.