The recently concluded War of the Wits: Battle of the Best and the Brightest – Higalaay Interschool Quiz Show Competition proved to be one of the most inspiring highlights of this year’s Higalaay Festival. Organized by the Rotaract and Rotary Clubs of Carmen Valley, in partnership with the Local Government of Cagayan de Oro, the event brought together 48 schools—22 elementary and 26 junior high schools—in a spirited competition of intellect, confidence, and camaraderie.
Far beyond being a battle of knowledge, the quiz show became a platform to introduce Rotary and Rotaract to the youth, inspiring the next generation of leaders to embrace the values of service, excellence, and teamwork. The energy inside the venue was electrifying as students showcased not only their academic brilliance but also their courage to rise to the challenge—proving that Cagayan de Oro is home to many bright young minds.
What made this year’s event even more memorable was the remarkable triumph of one of the winners, a student with functional autism. His achievement moved both the audience and the organizers, serving as a powerful reminder that talent and determination know no limits. His story is a testament to inclusivity and the boundless potential of every child when given the chance to shine.
The success of War of the Wits reflects the shared commitment of Rotary, Rotaract, and the City Government to nurturing education, promoting healthy competition, and celebrating the youth—the true future leaders of the community.
