As the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) drew nearer, the 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division emphasized the crucial role of the youths in the political and social development of the nation, during the 4th Leg of the Provincial Youth Leadership Summit (PYLS) 2023 held at the 10th Regional Community Defense Group (10RCDG) Headquarters, Camp Evangelista, Patag, Cagayan de Oro City on September 15-17, 2023.
In his message, delivered by Colonel Albert Flores, the Assistant Chief of Staff for Intelligence, Major General Jose Maria R. Cuerpo II, Commander of 4ID said the youths have the power to make a change because they play a significant role in the electoral process of the nation as voters or candidates.
He added that through the PYLS, their leadership skills are honed as they gain deeper understanding on governance and learn the importance of active citizenship. Hence, this experience will give them a personal growth and prepare them for a bigger responsibility in their communities.
“You are given the opportunity to propose, advocate, and implement programs or projects that will uplift your fellow youth and the community. In our quest to shape a better tomorrow, we must be cognisant of the challenges that our generation faces. I pervently hope that this summit shall light on the critical issues of our society today, such as illegal drugs, responsible use of social media, teenage pregnancy, mental health awareness, and CTG recruitment on youth sector,” he added.
A total of 100 youth from El Salvador City and municipality of Manticao in the province of Misamis Oriental participated in the summit facilitated by the 4ID and the LGU – MisOr through the Provincial Youth Development Office (PYDO) and the Propelling Our Inherited Nation Through Youth Inc. (POINTY).
