From November 25 to 27, 2025, youth leaders from Pangasinan, Iloilo City, and Zamboanga City gathered for ALAB: Empowering the Bagong Pilipinas Generation – Island-Wide Convention 2025, a nationwide convergence led by the National Youth Commission and the Sangguniang Kabataan. SK Pederasyon officials and Local Youth Development Council members came together to reflect on their roles, share local realities, and strengthen youth governance in their respective communities.
Through the Ateneo Learning and Teaching Excellence Center, particularly the Learning to Earning Pathways (LEaP!) of Ateneo de Zamboanga University participated as a partner in formation and accompaniment. The plenary conversations were practical and grounded in real community concerns. Discussions centered on sustaining youth engagement, improving coordination at the barangay level, and making programs more responsive to young people’s lived experiences. During the convention, the LEaP Programme team also invited SK delegates to take the Saktong Skills Serye, a set of micro courses designed to strengthen core leadership competencies. Many enrolled, and some committed to complete all six courses as part of their continuing development as young public servants.
One delegate from Caloocan City representing Luzon shared, “Lider kabataan. Barong on. Certificates earned. Service continues.” Having completed all six micro courses as a Certified Saktong Leader, Learner, Professional, Critical Thinker, Communicator, and Resilient, he emphasized that certification is not the endpoint. “Lagi’t lagi para sa mas inklusibo, mas aktibo, at mas progresibong kabataan para sa kinabukasan ng Bayan.” His reflection captured what the gathering affirmed. Leadership continues beyond recognition and into daily service.
For ALTEC-LEaP!, participating in ALAB 2025 reflects its ongoing commitment to walk with young leaders by strengthening their capacities and encouraging responsible governance rooted in service. As delegates return to their localities, the energy of the convention moves with them not only as inspiration, but as responsibility.
Mangarap. Mamulat. Magpatuloy.
Dahil bawat pangarap ay mahalaga.