NYC CONCLUDES YOUTH CONFAB: “ALAB” SPARKS EMPOWERMENT AMONG YOUTH LEADERS

February 15, 2025 Provincial

SAN FERNANDO, La Union

The National Youth Commission (NYC) has concluded its national convention and called on youth leaders to continue advocating for the empowerment of their peers, ensuring that the youth sector remains a critical force in nation progress. Participants expressed renewed determination to make a difference, fully embracing their roles in shaping a brighter future for the Bagong Pilipinas. The convention aimed to provide a platform for youth leaders to engage in meaningful discussions, develop effective policy frameworks, and strengthen their role in shaping the future of the Philippines.

Sessions focused on critical issues impacting the youth sector, including education, employment, and mental health, while also encouraging participants to take an active role in driving change within their respective communities.
Workshops and policy forums were held to develop actionable strategies that would help empower the next
generation of leaders and contribute to the country’s growth. The three-day event, held at the La Union Convention Center in San Fernando, La Union, brought together youth leaders across the nation, including Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) officials, Local Youth Development Officers (LYDOs), and members of Local Youth Development Councils (LYDCs).

Governor Raphaelle Veronica “Rafy” Ortega-David of La Union delivered her welcome remarks, challenging the participants to break stereotypes and showcase their capabilities as youth leaders. “Age does not define leadership. It’s not how many years you’ve lived. It’s about your vision, dedication, and most importantly your heart,” Ortega-David said. SK National Representative Commissioner Carol Julianne Dalipe in her message highlighted the
importance of policy consultation on essential frameworks for youth governance. “Today’s forum is not just about discussions; it’s about shaping the future of youth governance, policy making, and community development,” Dalipe
said, emphasizing the critical role of youth in nation-building.

Chairperson and CEO USec. Joseph Francisco “Jeff” Ortega also inspired participants with a powerful message on investing in health and education for a stronger Philippines. “I challenge each of you: invest in yourself, invest in your communities, and most importantly invest in our democracy by voting wisely.” he said. There was also a discussion with the representatives of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), Department of Budget and Management (DBM), Philippine
Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) Philippines, and Learning to Earning Pathways (LEaP).

Ramil Abenoja /UB-INTERN