31/05/2026
๐๐ ๐ฃ๐ข๐ช๐๐ฅ๐๐ก๐ ๐ฌ๐ข๐จ๐ง๐, ๐ฆ๐ง๐ฅ๐๐ก๐๐ง๐๐๐ก๐๐ก๐ ๐๐ข๐ ๐ ๐จ๐ก๐๐ง๐๐๐ฆ: ๐๐๐๐๐ง๐๐๐ก ๐๐๐๐๐ง๐ ๐๐๐๐ฅ ๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฎ๐ฒ
Guided by the theme, โHealthy Youth, Stronger Future: Promoting Wellness, Awareness, and Community Action,โ the Kabataan Health Fair 2026 was successfully conducted on May 29, 2026, at Bernadette's Cafรฉ, Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur.
Organized by the Pag-asa Youth Association of the Philippines, Inc. (PYAP) Sta. Cruz Federation in partnership with the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO), the event gathered youth leaders and PYAP members from various barangays across the municipality to promote health awareness, responsible decision-making, and active community participation.
The program featured a series of informative discussions led by distinguished resource speakers. Mr. Dennis R. Panolino, Case Finder, HIV Counselor, and Program Staff of DOH Region XIโPSFI-SHIP, discussed HIV and AIDS Awareness, highlighting prevention, education, and the importance of regular testing. As part of the advocacy campaign, condoms and HIV self-test kits were distributed to eligible participants to encourage responsible health practices and early detection.
Ms. Patricia Joyce Bechayda, RND, shared valuable insights on health and nutrition, while Mr. Rodceal Malinao, LPT, MAEd, discussed the importance of mental health awareness and emotional well-being among young people. Mr. Mart Juffer M. Felisilda, LPT, emphasized the vital role of youth in community development and nation-building. PMSg Jonipher Hinampas also conducted a session on Drug Awareness and Substance Abuse Prevention, empowering participants to make informed and responsible life choices.
More than a learning event, the Kabataan Health Fair 2026 served as a platform for youth empowerment, encouraging participants to become advocates of wellness, responsible citizenship, and positive social change. Through education, awareness, and meaningful engagement, the activity strengthened the commitment of the youth to building healthier communities and contributing to a safer, stronger, and more progressive future.
Indeed, empowered youth are not only the leaders of tomorrowโthey are the changemakers of today.