31/07/2026
𝐃𝐒𝐖𝐃 𝐅𝐢𝐞𝐥𝐝 𝐎𝐟𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐈𝐗 𝐉𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐘𝐀𝐏-𝐀𝐊𝐎 𝟓𝟐𝐧𝐝 𝐅𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐀𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐚𝐫𝐲
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office IX, through the Protective Services Division (PSD), joins the celebration of the 52nd Founding Anniversary of the Pag-Asa Youth Association of the Philippines - Ang Kabataan Organisado (PYAP-AKO) on July 31, 2026, held at the Balay Dangpanan sa Kabataan (BDSK) in Polanco, Zamboanga del Norte.
Carrying the theme, “Sustaining the Flame: Institutionalizing Empowered Leadership, Strengthening Governance, and Advancing Development Pathways for a Future-Ready PYAP-AKO,” the celebration highlights the organization’s enduring commitment to empowering Filipino youth through transformative leadership, active citizenship, volunteerism, and meaningful community engagement.
The celebration is spearheaded by Protective Services Division Chief Rowena R. Mendoza, RSW, together with Balay Dangpanan sa Kabataan (BDSK) Center Head Ma. Eva E. Avila, RSW, and Children and Youth Focal Person Safia R. Crisostomo, RSW, with the support of DSWD personnel, PYAP-AKO officers, and partner stakeholders.
The anniversary celebration serves as a meaningful occasion to recognize the achievements of PYAP-AKO over the years, honor the invaluable contributions of its members and partners, and reaffirm the organization’s commitment to nurturing empowered youth leaders, strengthening governance, promoting volunteerism, and fostering sustainable community development.
As part of the celebration, PYAP-AKO officers from Isabela City and Zamboanga City participated in a Learning Exchange Visit to the Balay Dangpanan sa Kabataan (BDSK) and the Regional Rehabilitation Center for Youth (RRCY). The exchange will provide an opportunity for participants to engage with the residents, share experiences, exchange insights, and promote peer learning that inspires positive change, resilience, and leadership among the youth.
Through initiatives such as these, DSWD Field Office IX continues to strengthen partnerships that empower young people to become active agents of social transformation. By investing in youth leadership and creating platforms for collaboration and learning, the Department reaffirms its commitment to building resilient, responsible, and future-ready generations who will contribute to inclusive and sustainable nation-building.
