Editing UP Debate Society (section)

==Overview==
The UP Debate Society is a non-stock, non-profit organization whose purpose is to train and field students in the [[University of the Philippines Diliman]] to represent the institution in local as well as international tournaments. Its goal is to encourage the fearless and critical analysis of relevant issues in the Philippines as well as in the international scene. The UP Debate Society (UPDS) was established in October 1993 as a full-fledged organization dedicated to debating excellence.

In its 14 years of existence, the Society has received numerous debate and public speaking achievements both in local and international tournaments including winning the title as National Debating Champions of 2006.

Aside from the Society's long tradition of debate excellence, it has also sought to immerse its members in various socio-civic programs. Moreover, UPDS travels around the country to facilitate debate seminars to various high schools and colleges. In the previous years, the UPDS went to Ilocos, Romblon, and Banuar to facilitate large-scale debate seminars. In Metro Manila, the Society regularly holds Fast Forward, an advanced debate and seminar/workshop for both high school and college students. The Society also organizes Take A Stand, a basic debate program to strengthen critical thinking and public speaking skills among the youth.

In 2002 the UP Debate Society officially expanded its thrust by institutionalizing a project to promote the fearless expression of ideas, not just in UP but across the nation. Thus was born the Inquirer Inter-Collegiate Debating Championships, a partnership between the UPDS and the nation's leading broadsheet, the Philippine Daily Inquirer. In 2006. this later evolved into the Philippine Inter-collegiate Debating Championship, a truly national debate competition celebrating Filipino Minds and their Boundless Perspectives.

As it approaches its 15th year, the UPDS continues to get stronger and better at bringing pride to the University and advancing an informed and critical habit among the youth.