Theme: The Force of Influence

That one video you liked on Quick Editing Tips. That one drag queen you're still not over with. That one editorial cartoon on a social issue you saw on Twitter. That one write-up you read on a local story. That one locally woven costume you so wanted to wear and support. That one theater performer you jammed and cried with.

We all have that one person, that one place, or that one memory that has influenced who we are today. In this latest TEDxUSJR edition, let's dig into the force of these defining moments in our lives.

USJR Basak Campus Auditorium
7VQ6+XQR usjr, cicct, Cebu City, 6000 Cebu
Auditorium
Cebu, Cebu, 6000
Philippines

John Sitchon

Journalist / News Correspondent

John Sitchon has been working on his craft as a journalist since his first year of college in 2019. Working his way through the COVID-19 Pandemic, Typhoon Odette, and the 2022 election campaign trail as Rappler’s Cebu Bureau Correspondent, John eventually became Rappler’s Visayas Reporter in 2023, covering major regional issues and shedding light on stories that show how the masses matter. During his academic years at the University of San Jose Recoletos, he was the student council president of the 40th USJ-R SSC Congress. Prior to this, he led the non-profit organization Visayan Youth Matters as the then-director for operations.

John Nicko Coyoca

Educator / Managing Executive Director of Set Forth Philippines Organization Inc.

Mr. John Nicko Coyoca, LPT, is a renowned educator and youth leader, having graduated from CIT University with a degree in AB Communication and Mechanical Engineering. He is currently the Managing Executive Director of Set Forth Philippines Organization Inc, a non-government organization dedicated to quality education. Mr. Coyoca has been recognized for his leadership, research, and contributions to transnationalism, youth leadership, and languages.

Kenosis Leo Gadapan

Entrepreneur / Chef

Kenosis Leo Gadapan graduated with a 30-month British Advance Diploma Programme in International Culinary Arts Academy Cebu (ICAAC). He worked as logistics head in Hyper Events PH, marketing head in Warriors Turf Clothing, and as a culinary intern focusing on Garde Manger and Ocean Club VIP Lounge in Shangri-La Mactan Resort and Spa. Kenosis is the Owner and Founder of Cheezken Cakes and Pastries shop.

Pats Pinote

Content Creator / Social Media Influencer

Pats Pinote is a social media influencer and content creator whose popularity rose on TikTok with his comical skits and entertaining content. Ever since, he brings smiles and laughter, making the digital and online world bubbly and light with his content. Pats Pinote is also a graduate of the University of San Jose - Recoletos.

Pia Labra

Cebuana Drag Queen

Introducing Piayuuuh, the unstoppable Cebuana Drag Queen! With a captivating blend of camp, elegance, glamour, and political edge, she commands attention. But Piayuuuh's impact extends far beyond drag. Fearlessly fighting for human rights, she leads the charge for transgender rights and HIV/AIDS awareness. As Deputy Executive Director of Angat Cebu BPO, she ignites change and leaves an indelible mark. Piayuuuh: A force to be reckoned with, using her art and advocacy to reshape the world.

Veronica Baguio

CEO of Balik Batik

Veronica Baguio, a social entrepreneur, Registered Psychometrician, Licensed Professional Teacher, and a graduate from Ateneo de Manila University, is an active advocate of youth empowerment. She organized leadership programs locally, nationally and internationally. She is the Founder and Owner of Balik Batik, a social enterprise and fashion brand that works with Filipino indigenous weavers and artisans to promote traditional Filipino artistry, and support the livelihood of Filipino makers.