Mariknows Philippines

13/08/2026

Apply now!

CALLING ALL EMERGING YOUTH LEADERS IN DAVAO REGION AND NEIGHBORING REGIONS IN MINDANAO!

Applications are now open for the 4th Batch of the Emerging Young Leaders Program (EYLP): YSEALI Learns MOOC Camp, happening on August 28 to 29, 2026, at the MPR, CCFC, Ateneo de Davao University.

This year's program focuses on the Fundamentals of Starting and Running a Business, bringing together emerging youth leaders, aspiring entrepreneurs, and innovators who are ready to transform ideas into sustainable ventures. Through interactive workshops, expert-led sessions, and collaborative learning, participants will develop practical skills in entrepreneurship, business development, innovation, and leadership. More than building successful businesses, EYLP seeks to cultivate a new generation of leaders who pursue social entrepreneurship, using enterprise as a tool to address community challenges, create opportunities, and generate lasting social impact.

The program is fully funded for selected participants. Meals, training kits, learning materials, expert-led sessions, and certificates are all provided at no cost. Participants are only expected to shoulder their own transportation to and from the venue and accommodation (if needed). All other program expenses are fully covered.

Apply now by scanning the QR code on the poster or through this link:
https://bit.ly/EYLPBatch4
Application Deadline: August 20, 2026

Whether you are exploring your first business idea, expanding an existing venture, or seeking to create meaningful impact through entrepreneurship, EYLP offers an opportunity to learn from experienced mentors, connect with fellow emerging youth leaders, and join a growing network of young leaders driving innovation and sustainable development across Mindanao.

Build a business. Lead with purpose. Create impact.




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The Emerging Young Leaders Program (EYLP) is a collaborative initiative of the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines, American Spaces Philippines, American Corner Davao-ADDU, YSEALI Philippines, Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative- Davao Hub, United States Government Alumni Association - Davao, Ateneo de Davao University, in partnership with Rotary Club of Davao - RCD.

05/08/2026

30/07/2026

Meet the Speakers of at DMMA College of Southern Philippines!

Tomorrow, stories will be shared. Voices will be heard. Conversations that are often left unspoken will finally take center stage.

: Empowering Schools and Communities Across Mindanao to End Gender-based Violence brings together an inspiring lineup of speakers whose experiences, expertise, and advocacy remind us that creating safe spaces begins with listening to one another. From educators and human rights advocates to women and LGBTQIA+ champions, allies, and courageous victim survivors, each speaker carries a story that has the power to educate, challenge perspectives, and inspire action.

Throughout the day, participants will hear powerful messages, learn from lived experiences, and take part in meaningful forums that explore gender equality, allyship, inclusion, and the realities of gender based violence. These conversations are not only about understanding the challenges we face today but also about discovering how each of us can become part of the solution.

Participants willexplore the ATINGI Digital Enquirer Kit on Gender Based Violence, an interactive learning platform supported by the European Union and GIZ. The toolkit equips people with practical knowledge and tools to recognize, prevent, and respond to gender based violence while promoting respect, equality, and safer communities.

Every story shared tomorrow is more than a personal experience. It is a reminder that healing is possible, that allyship matters, and that lasting change begins when people choose to listen, learn, and stand together.



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at DMMA-CSP is a campaign project by Our Stories, Our Voices (OSOV) and Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH – Ziviler Friedensdienst (Civil Peace Service) in partnership with DMMA College of Southern Philippines through the Human Resource and Development Office, Guidance Office, Office of Student Affairs, and the DMMA SOME Student Organization of Marine Engineering.

29/07/2026

Protecting the West Philippine Sea means protecting our people, our environment, and our future. We are glad to see educational resources like this DENR ebook series helping inspire the next generation of ocean stewards.

A three-part series was launched by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources ( ) on Tuesday that introduces young Filipinos to the country's rich marine biodiversity and the importance of protecting the West Philippine Sea. | Sean Magbanua

12/07/2026

Recap Video | Looking Back at From Currents to Courage: Sailing the Course Through Maritime Security in Celebration of the 10th Anniversary of the 2016 Arbitral Award

As we look back on From Currents to Courage: Sailing the Course Through Maritime Security, a gathering that brought together government officials, diplomats, maritime and security experts, academics, civil society leaders, and youth leaders to advance meaningful dialogue on the future of our shared seas, we also reflect on the significance of the 2016 Arbitral Award and its enduring importance in upholding international law and the rules based international order.

Held as part of the celebration of the 80th Anniversary of Philippines United States diplomatic relations and the 75th Anniversary of the Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT), the event served as a platform for informed discussions on maritime security, regional stability, international law, and the importance of cooperation in addressing shared maritime challenges.

Participants engaged in Toward Calm Waters: Dialogue and Cooperation in Maritime Spaces, followed by Exploring Maritime Cooperation: The Role of International Partnerships on Maritime Security, where experts examined the evolving maritime landscape and underscored the value of diplomacy, collaboration, and youth engagement in fostering a peaceful, secure, and resilient Indo-Pacific.

As we reflect on the conversations, partnerships, and shared commitment that defined this initiative, we are reminded that safeguarding our maritime future begins with informed dialogue, respect for international law, collective action, and the courage to navigate challenges together.

From conversations to collaboration. From currents to courage. 🌊



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This project is organized by the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines, American Spaces Philippines, United States Government Alumni Association - Davao, Mariknows Philippines, and Ateneo de Davao University, in partnership with the Department of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of the Philippines, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Eastern Mindanao Command, Philippine Navy – Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao, Civil Relations Service Armed Forces of the Philippines, Civil-Military Operations School, 5th Civil Relations Group, Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan, Ateneo de Zamboanga University, Mindanao State University, MSU Tawi-Tawi College of Technology and Oceanography, Notre Dame of Jolo College, and the DMMA Student Organization of Marine Engineering.

04/07/2026

Panel Discussion Highlights | Exploring Maritime Cooperation: The Role of International Partnerships on Maritime Security

As part of the From Currents to Courage: Sailing the Course Through Maritime Security Project, participants gathered at the Bapa Benny Tudtud Auditorium of Ateneo de Davao University, joined by watch parties hosted by partner universities and colleges across Mindanao and online participants via Zoom from different parts of the country, for Exploring Maritime Cooperation: The Role of International Partnerships on Maritime Security.

The forum brought together nearly 250 participants, including youth leaders, maritime students, educators, government representatives, civil society advocates, and community stakeholders for meaningful discussions on maritime security, diplomacy, and regional cooperation.

The afternoon began with a keynote presentation by LCDR Jerome Bryan S. Mauring PN of the Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao, representing the Armed Forces of the Philippines. He provided participants with valuable insights into the country's current maritime security landscape, highlighting the Philippine Navy's and the Armed Forces of the Philippines' ongoing initiatives to safeguard the nation's maritime domain. Drawing from operational experiences and current developments, he emphasized the importance of maritime domain awareness, interagency collaboration, and public participation in protecting the country's waters. He also encouraged participants, particularly the youth, to become advocates for maritime security and responsible stewardship of the nation's maritime resources.

The highlight of the afternoon was the panel discussion featuring Mr. Moses Isaiah B. Places, Principal Assistant of Division II, Ocean Governance, Shipping and Seafaring, Maritime and Ocean Affairs Office of the Department of Foreign Affairs; Roen Cardinal of Child Alert Mindanao and Kape ug Kaagi; LCDR Jerome Bryan S. Mauring PN of the Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao, representing the Armed Forces of the Philippines; and Mr. Kenny Lloyd Angon, Assistant Director of the Al Qalam Institute of Ateneo de Davao University. The discussion was moderated by Dr. Apple Grace Bonhoc Ybañez, YSEALI WLA Alumna and USGAA Davao member.

The panelists explored the vital role of international partnerships in advancing maritime security, emphasizing that cooperation at sea is essential for promoting peace, safeguarding national interests, and addressing shared regional challenges. They highlighted how strong collaboration among governments, security institutions, academic institutions, civil society organizations, and international partners contributes to combating illegal activities at sea, strengthening humanitarian assistance and disaster response, protecting marine resources, and ensuring freedom of navigation. The discussion also underscored how maritime security directly impacts trade, livelihoods, food security, economic growth, environmental sustainability, and regional stability, reinforcing the importance of diplomacy, mutual trust, and collective action in building a secure and resilient Indo-Pacific region.

Following the panel discussion, Syed Ampatuan, an International Studies student from Ateneo de Davao University; Asst. Prof. Madzween Joy De Asis-Omar, Director for Peace and Development in Mindanao of MSU Tawi-Tawi; and Yasmin Mangotara, faculty member of the Department of Political Studies at MSU Marawi City, served as reactors, offering thoughtful reflections that enriched the conversation. Drawing from their academic, professional, and community perspectives, they emphasized the importance of inclusive dialogue, youth participation, and peacebuilding in shaping maritime governance. Their insights connected the discussions to the realities faced by communities across Mindanao and reinforced the value of empowering the next generation to contribute to regional cooperation and maritime security.

Throughout the event, participants gained valuable knowledge on the interconnected nature of maritime security, diplomacy, and international cooperation. Building on the insights from the forum and roundtable discussions, participants were divided into five groups to develop project ideas, advocacy campaigns, and community initiatives that promote maritime awareness and security. Each group presented innovative proposals that demonstrated how the day's discussions could be translated into meaningful action within their schools, organizations, and communities. The event concluded with the From Currents to Courage (FCC) Team presenting the FCC Manifesto, reaffirming a shared commitment among participants to champion maritime awareness, strengthen international cooperation, and contribute to a safer, more secure, and sustainable maritime future.

This project is organized by the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines, American Spaces Philippines, United States Government Alumni Association - Davao, Mariknows Philippines, and Ateneo de Davao University, in partnership with the Department of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of the Philippines, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Eastern Mindanao Command, Philippine Navy – Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao, Civil Relations Service Armed Forces of the Philippines, Civil-Military Operations School, 5th Civil Relations Group, Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan, Ateneo de Zamboanga University, Mindanao State University, MSU Tawi-Tawi College of Technology and Oceanography, Notre Dame of Jolo College, and the DMMA Student Organization of Marine Engineering.

30/06/2026

Happy Pride! 🏳️‍🌈🤍

21/06/2026

Forum Highlights | Toward Calm Waters: Dialogue and Cooperation in Maritime Spaces

As part of the From Currents to Courage: Sailing the Course Through Maritime Security Project, participants gathered at the Bapa Benny Tudtud Auditorium of Ateneo de Davao University, through watch parties hosted by partner universities and colleges across Mindanao, and online via Zoom from different parts of the country for Toward Calm Waters: Dialogue and Cooperation in Maritime Spaces. The forum brought together nearly 250 participants, including youth leaders, maritime students, educators, government representatives, civil society advocates, and community stakeholders for meaningful conversations on maritime security, diplomacy, and regional cooperation.

The program opened with opening remarks from Ryan Ingrassia, Director for Public Engagement of the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines, followed by a welcome message from Lorgina Samson, RL, MLIS, Director of the University Libraries and American Corner Davao of Ateneo de Davao University. Participants also heard a message of support from COL Jenny A. De Mesa FS (GSC) PA, Group Commander of the 5th Civil Relations Group, Civil-Military Operations Command, Armed Forces of the Philippines. Harold Banggay, Project Manager of From Currents to Courage, then provided an overview of the project and its objectives of fostering informed dialogue, youth engagement, and collaboration on maritime security issues.

The forum's main speaker session, "Toward Calm Waters: Dialogue and Cooperation in Maritime Spaces," was delivered by Mr. Moses Isaiah B. Places, Principal Assistant, Division II, Ocean Governance, Shipping and Seafaring, Maritime and Ocean Affairs Office, Department of Foreign Affairs.

Drawing from the Department of Foreign Affairs' perspective on maritime affairs, Mr. Places discussed the importance of dialogue, diplomacy, and cooperation in addressing maritime challenges. He highlighted how maritime security affects trade, livelihoods, economic development, and regional stability, while briefly discussing developments in the West Philippine Sea and the Philippines' commitment to upholding international law and a rules-based international order. He also encouraged young people to engage in informed discussions and contribute to efforts that promote peace, cooperation, and responsible maritime governance.

Following the speaker session, a diverse panel of reactors shared insights from their respective sectors and communities. Their reflections highlighted how maritime issues intersect with governance, education, community development, security, youth leadership, and regional cooperation.

Among the reactors were Roen Cardinal of Child Alert Mindanao and Kape ug Kaagi, representing the community and children's sector; Atty. Allen Bejerano, Supervising Legislative Staff Officer I of the Office of MP Abrar Hataman, Bangsamoro Transition Authority; LCDR Jerome Bryan S. Mauring PN of Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao, representing the Armed Forces of the Philippines; Prof. Zoren Francis A. Echevarria of Mindanao State University-Marawi, representing the academic sector; Adrian Lascuña, Chairman of the Sangguniang Kabataan, representing youth in government; Asst. Prof. Nelson Dino, Director for Creative Works of MSU Tawi-Tawi College of Technology and Oceanography; Axcel Oliver Madel of Davao Merchant Marine Academy, representing maritime students; and Roben Musa, Youth East Asia Ambassador and member of the United States Government Alumni Association–Davao, representing youth in the community.

The reactor session enriched the discussion by providing diverse perspectives on the importance of maritime security and cooperation from the lenses of government, academia, civil society, maritime education, and youth leadership. Their insights reinforced the idea that maritime issues affect not only national security and foreign policy but also communities, livelihoods, and future generations.

The forum concluded with an engaging question-and-answer session, where participants shared reflections and explored issues related to maritime security, diplomacy, regional cooperation, and youth participation. The exchange fostered deeper understanding and encouraged meaningful dialogue among participants from different backgrounds and disciplines.

Throughout the event, participants gained valuable knowledge, built new connections, and strengthened their commitment to informed engagement on maritime affairs. By bringing together voices from different sectors, institutions, and communities across Mindanao and the Philippines, the forum demonstrated the importance of collaboration, dialogue, and shared responsibility in navigating maritime challenges. As the From Currents to Courage Project continues, these conversations will help empower a new generation of leaders and advocates committed to promoting peace, cooperation, and a secure maritime future.

This project is organized by the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines, American Spaces Philippines, United States Government Alumni Association - Davao, Mariknows Philippines, and Ateneo de Davao University, in partnership with the Department of Foreign Affairs, Republic of the Philippines, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Eastern Mindanao Command, AFP, Philippine Navy – Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao, Civil Relations Service Armed Forces of the Philippines, Civil-Military Operations School, CMOC AFP - 5th Civil Relations Group, Xavier University - Ateneo de Cagayan, Ateneo de Zamboanga University, Mindanao State University, MSU Tawi-Tawi College of Technology and Oceanography, Notre Dame of Jolo College, and the DMMA Student Organization of Marine Engineering.