29/01/2026
๐๐ฌ๐๐ ๐๐ฎ๐๐ ๐ฎโ๐ฏ | ๐๐ฒ๐ฎ๐ฑ๐ฒ๐ฟ๐๐ต๐ถ๐ฝ ๐ถ๐ป ๐๐ฐ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป, ๐ฆ๐๐ฒ๐๐ฎ๐ฟ๐ฑ๐๐ต๐ถ๐ฝ ๐ถ๐ป ๐ฃ๐น๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ฒ ๐
Despite relentless rain and fleeting sunbreaks, the Hamiguitan Young Leaders Congress (HYLC) pressed on during its second day, equipping emerging leaders with transformative insights on governance, entrepreneurship, and community resilience.
Delegates explored Hamiguitan's unique challenges, from ecological preservation to socio-economic dynamics, under the guidance of expert speakers who bridged theory with practical application. Building on this foundation, Jhonnel P. Villegas, MSc, LPT, FASP, provided a deep dive into the region's prevailing conditions, stressing the need for biodiversity conservation amid climate pressures.
Meanwhile, Mx. Marvelous Camillo examined public service mechanisms for ordinance formulation, advocating for inclusive policies that empower rural communities.
Furthermore, Juanquine โWacky Rachoโ Castro shared a regional perspective on project management through an ASEAN lens, highlighting strategies for efficient, collaborative ex*****on.
In addition, Prince Jay P. Villafuerte ignited ideation sessions for start-up businesses, encouraging delegates to merge innovation with social responsibility.
Transitioning to procedural skills, Marl Calonia Morales demystified parliamentary procedures, building essential competencies in democratic processes.
Finally, Vik F. Melitante Jr. energized discussions on advocacy campaigns and coalition building, illustrating how unified efforts can drive systemic reforms.
Culminating in the day's highlight, the congress featured a dynamic project pitching session, where delegates presented their project proposals. Judges Mx. Marvelous Camillo, Atty. Mark Peรฑalver, and Reymark Nesperos evaluated the pitches, identifying initiatives with the potential to foster lasting change.
Beyond formal sessions, HYLC fostered vital networking, allowing participants to exchange ideas and form alliances for collective impact. As the day ended, the delegates received heightened competencies and a shared commitment to advancing eco-friendly development across Hamiguitan and neighboring areas.
This event not only weathered the elements but also exemplified how adversity can fuel progress, setting a benchmark for youth-led innovation in the Philippines.
The learning continued on Day 3 through the Advocacy Firechat Series, where delegates engaged in candid, dialogue-driven conversations with practitioners working on the frontlines of sustainability and environmental action.
Atty. Mark Peรฑalver, Executive Director of Interfacing Development Interventions for Sustainability (IDIS), Inc., emphasized the importance of evidence-based advocacy, policy engagement, and cross-sector collaboration in advancing sustainable development initiatives.
Complementing this, Eleuterio Avergonzado, Research and Reforestation Officer of Eurogenerics International Foundation Philippines, Inc., shared insights on community-led reforestation and conservation efforts, underscoring the role of science, local ownership, and long-term commitment in protecting critical ecosystems such as Mt. Hamiguitan.
Learning continued through an immersive day tour of Subangan Museum and Dahican Beach, where delegates encountered the cultural, historical, and ecological narratives that shape Davao Oriental. The experience was enriched by meaningful exchanges with Atty. Mark Peรฑalver and the Tourism Officer, Mr. Choke Idelible, reinforcing how culture, conservation, and sustainable tourism intersect in building resilient communities.
From policy rooms to coastlines, HYLC affirmed a core truth: leadership is strongest when rooted in place, people, and purpose.
