Youth leaders urged to help empower communities
SENATOR Christopher “Bong” Go, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Youth, emphasized the critical role of young leaders in nation-building as he delivered the keynote speech at “PANGANDOY: The National Youth Convention 2024” held at the Forest Crest Nature Hotel in Nasugbu, Batangas on Monday, December 2.
Go reiterated the importance of youth empowerment and stressed the need for collective action in molding them into productive citizens towards reaching their goals and aspirations.
“Bilang chairperson ng Senate committee on youth, naniniwala ako na ang kabataan ang pag-asa ng bayan, hindi lamang sa hinaharap kundi pati na rin sa kasalukuyan,” he stated. He encouraged youth leaders to use the convention as an opportunity to enhance their programs and initiatives.
“Hinihikayat ko ang bawat isa sa inyo na patuloy na pagyamanin ang inyong mga programa sa lokal na antas. Gamitin ninyo ang mga natutunan ninyo dito upang mapalawak ang inyong kaalaman at mas mapaunlad pa ang inyong mga proyekto para sa kabataan. Kayo ang future leaders ng bansang ito,” Go added.
The event served as a platform to align local youth initiatives with the Philippine Youth Development Plan (PYDP) 2023–2028 and reinforce the vital roles of young leaders in fostering community development.
Go has strongly advocated for enhanced programs for the National Youth Commission (NYC) as he supported the funding for this year’s youth conventions.
He also supported the proposed 2025 budget of NYC, highlighting its critical role in fostering youth development through various programs and initiatives. Go emphasized the necessity of adequate budget allocation to support the commission’s efforts in preparing the youth for future challenges.
Go commended the participants for their dedication to their communities. He encouraged attendees to remain proactive in their efforts, reminding them that their success depends on shared goals and collective action.
Go extended his gratitude to the officials who played significant roles in organizing and supporting the event. He thanked local officials Governor Dodo Mandanas and Vice Governor Mark Leviste for their unwavering support for youth development in Batangas. He also acknowledged National Youth Commission (NYC) officials, including Usec. Jeff Ortega, chairperson and CEO of the NYC; commissioners Karl Josef Legazpi, Michelle Mae Gonzales, Atty. Reena Vivienne Pineda, Bianca Patrice Go, and Carol Julianne Dalipe; and Leah Villalon, executive director.
The senator also lauded the 500 youth leaders, SK officials, LYDC members, and LYDOs in attendance, describing their presence as “a testament to their commitment to shaping a brighter future.”
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