National Figures Engage Youth Leaders at Summit

The first National Youth Development Summit convened on the Silliman campus before the holday break gathered youth leaders and advocates for an event aimed at inspiring young people to realize their critical role in addressing development issues.

A series of talks, discussions, competitions and interaction with national figures highlighted the four-day event.  Topics revolved around human rights, environmental sustainability, good governance, entrepreneurship and finance, culture and arts, education, social media, and social responsibility.

Resource persons and facilitators were personalities whose continuing work and advocacies influence decisions and greatly impact communities. They included Hon. Loretta Ann Rosales, chairperson of the Commission on Human Rights, Gawad Kalinga founder Mr. Tony Meloto, former National Treasurer and incumbent Chairperson of the Silliman Board of Trustees Prof. Leonor M. Briones, social entpreneur Mr. Bam Aquino, historian Mr. Xiao Chua, Ms Mae Paner a.k.a. Juana Change, , Rep. Jocelyn Limkaichon of the first district of Negros Oriental, Valenzuela Mayor Sherwin Gatchalian, environmentalist Ms Anna Oposo and travel blogger Ivan Henares.

Ms Risa Hontiveros-Baraquel, former Member of the House of Representatives, represented Philippine President Benigno Aquino III who was not able to attend the event as the keynote speaker.

The Summit was organized by Kaakbay Youth Development Initiatives, Inc. and the Silliman University Student Government. It was sponsored by the National Youth Commission, United Nations Development Programme, Social Watch Philippines and National Association of UNESCO Clubs in the Philippines, with support from the British Council.