11/05/2026
From May 1–3, 2026, PHINMA Foundation gathered PHINMA National Scholars for the annual PHINMA Youth Leadership Camp, themed “Hero in Me.”
Grounded in PHINMA’s core value of love of country, this year’s Leadership Camp was designed and led by PHINMA National Scholarship Program (PNS) alumni as an immersive leadership workshop. The camp provided scholars with opportunities to reflect on their personal advocacies, engage in meaningful dialogue with fellow scholars, and learn from mentors and advocacy leaders. The modules focused on self-awareness, empathy, and leadership for nation-building.
In her opening remarks, PHINMA Foundation, Inc. (PFI) President Nicole del Rosario Serafica shared stories of PHINMA Group leaders who embody the organization’s core values—highlighting how empathy-driven leadership creates meaningful impact in nation-building.
The camp also created meaningful spaces for connection among scholars which helped scholars gain clarity on the kind of leaders they aspire to be and the impact they hope to create in their communities. On Day 2 of the Lead Camp, scholars participated in advocacy-based breakout sessions facilitated by guest speakers:
Education – Jaton Zulueta (Founder and Executive Director, AHA Learning Center)
Community Development – Rash Caratativo (Managing Director, Active Vista)
Environment – Juen Quiambao (Senior High School Coordinator, Xavier School Nuvali)
Culture & Arts – PJ Hernandez (Creator, The Traveling Salakot)
Diversity & Inclusion – AJ Villapando (Program Officer, PANTAY)
PFI Chairman Roberto Laviña visited the camp and shared his guiding principle with the scholars: “Wake up. Kick ass. Be kind. Repeat.” He encouraged them to pursue excellence and contribute to the country while staying true to their values and principles.
PHINMA Vice President for Public Affairs Peter Perfecto also dropped by, sharing words of encouragement and reminding scholars to choose kindness and perseverance amid challenges. He echoed PHINMA Chairman and CEO Mr. Ramon del Rosario, Jr.’s message: “I believe the spirit of bayanihan—of collective action for the common good—is more relevant today than ever before.”
PNS Big Brother, Big Sister mentors were also present, offering guidance to the scholars throughout the sessions.
On Day 3, scholars presented their advocacy projects aimed at responding to pressing community needs. Special recognition was given to advocacy pitches that demonstrated clarity, feasibility, and strong articulation.
In his closing remarks, PFI Executive Director Ron Ranier Reyes emphasized that the advocacy projects represent commitments that should be pursued beyond the Leadership Camp. He underscored that meaningful change comes from the concrete actions young people take to bring their advocacies to life.
PHINMA Foundation extends its heartfelt gratitude to the PNS alumni volunteer facilitators who thoughtfully designed and led the sessions, generously sharing their time and expertise. We also thank our PFI leaders, mentors, and guest speakers for their insights and inspiration.
Through the three-day Leadership Camp, we reaffirmed our commitment to strengthening scholars’ sense of purpose and love of country. We look forward to seeing our scholars succeed in their respective paths while actively contributing to making the lives of Filipinos better.