30/07/2025
🌟 PYAP 51st Founding Anniversary Celebration 🌟
"Thriving, not just surviving: holistic support for the socio-emotional well-being, igniting hope and shaping the future of new era of PYAP-Ako."
📍 Event Center, SM Pampanga | July 29, 2025
Rain or shine, the celebration went on! With hearts full of hope and unity, youth from all over Central Luzon gathered at SM Pampanga to celebrate the 51st Founding Anniversary of the Pag-asa Youth Association of the Philippines (PYAP). The event was proudly hosted by the City Government of San Fernando, Pampanga, standing resilient despite the inclement weather.
Master of Ceremony, Mr. Jerome Caliwara from Malolos City, Bulacan, led the program with energy and warmth, guiding the crowd through the exciting celebration.
Hon. Isen Roi S. Henson, SK President – CSFP, congratulated PYAP Region 3 for their strong presence and commitment despite the heavy rains. He expressed his gratitude for being invited and emphasized the importance of the theme, highlighting the need for every young leader to prioritize socio-emotional well-being.
Mr. John Paul Correa, Youth Development Officer II – CSFP, shared his inspiring journey as a former out-of-school youth and past PYAP Regional President: "Katulad niyo, dati rin akong nakaupo jan at nakikinig. Dating kabataan na hindi nakikita, naririnig, at naabot ng gobyerno. Ngayon, kasama namin kayo sa pagpapaunlad sa bawat komunidad tungo sa ligtas at progresibong bansa."
Mr. Czar Cornelius R. David, Division Chief – Protective Service Division, presented an overview of the current youth situation in Region 3. He stressed the need for continued partnership and coordination among Youth Focal Persons, Local Youth Development Officers, and PYAP members to strengthen youth participation in social welfare and development.
Festival Dance Competition:
Vibrant performances from Zambales, Bulacan, Tarlac, Aurora, and Pampanga showcased rich culture and youthful energy. Judges were amazed by the creativity, passion, and cultural pride displayed by each province!
A heartfelt musical performance by Oliver Vasquez, PYAP – Angeles City.
Fun Games & Wheel of Names:
Hosted by DSWD Combased staff and supported by the PYAP Regional Officers led by Mr. Roel Abraham of the Province of Bulacan, this segment brought fun, surprises, and laughter to all!
🏅 PYAP Success Stories & Natatanging PYAPs
Spearheaded by Karen Alvarado, Regional Youth Focal Person, this portion highlighted inspiring youth stories and recognized outstanding PYAP leaders who exemplify excellence, resilience, and service: Daruel Samgelo A. Naelgas, Daniel Aian M. Ramos, Angelo E. Espino, Lhenard Nicodemus, John Warren Lansangan, Joshua A. Bautista, Aira Geelyne F. Sollegue, Sphencer A. Rapada, Sherwin G. Lozano.
DSWD TWG and Heads awarded certificates and cash incentives to the Natatanging PYAPs. This was followed by the announcement of Festival Dance winners, as judged by a panel of experts, youth focal persons, and PYAP representatives.
Ms. Charito E. Ragualdo, Head of Combased Unit, PSD, expressed her heartfelt appreciation to all organizers, speakers, performers, and participants for making the celebration a resounding success despite the weather challenges.
Special Thanks to the City Government of San Fernando, Pampanga, Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office 3, and SM Pampanga for being the steadfast hosts of this year’s anniversary celebration a true example of youth-centered leadership that stands strong, rain or shine!
The Unlad Kabataan Program (UKP), through the organization of PYAP in each community, serves as a stepping stone in ensuring that our out-of-school youth become productive members of society.
Let’s continue building a future where no youth is left behind, where every voice is heard, and every leader thrives.
