From July 30 to August 1, 2025, we had the meaningful opportunity to conduct a t...

From July 30 to August 1, 2025, we had the meaningful opportunity to conduct a three-day training entitled “Indigenous Peoples Youth Capacity Enhancement: Deepening Leadership, Rights, and Governance Participation.” This activity was made possible with the support of the Zamboanga-Basilan Integrated Development Alliance, Inc. (ZABIDA) Peace Advocates Zamboanga (PAZ) and ASMAE Philippines. The Indigenous youth participants from six partner barangays joined this important event. The training served as a continuation of the Building Leadership Training conducted last month, to further strengthen the leadership skills and deepen the knowledge of IP youth in areas such as human rights, active civic participation, and good governance. Throughout the three days, the participants engaged in interactive discussions, hands-on workshops, and reflection sessions. These activities helped them better understand their roles as young leaders and future changemakers in their respective communities. One of the key highlights of the training was the presentation of community-based proposals created by each group. The proposals addressed several relevant issues, including the promotion of proper nutrition, support for LGBT rights and inclusion, youth empowerment, concerns of out-of-school youth (OSY), and the prevention of teenage pregnancy. We were also honored to have guest speakers who contributed valuable insights. Representatives from Mujer LGBT Organization, Inc. and the Office of the City Environment and Natural Resources (OCENR) spoke about inclusion and environmental sustainability. Sir Alex Molas facilitated an engaging session on decision-making and effective facilitation. Unfortunately, the City Health Office—though invited—was unable to attend due to an urgent commitment on the same day. Another important part of the training was the session on the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Reform Law, held at Centro de los Jóvenes en Participación in Barangay Mercedes. This session was led by Hon. Kim Villaflores and Hon. John Cary Pioc, Barangay Kagawad of Mercedes. As former SK leaders, they shared their experiences, challenges, and lessons learned from their time in office. Their stories inspired and guided the participants, offering a clearer picture of the potential and responsibility of youth in local governance. Overall, the training created a safe and inclusive space for learning, dialogue, and collaboration among Indigenous youth. It empowered them to see themselves as agents of change and encouraged them to take proactive steps in addressing the needs of their communities through leadership, advocacy, and active participation in governance. #ZABIDA #PAZ #ASMAEphilippines #IndigenousPeoplesYouthorg #ParnershipforHumanSecurity #peacebuildingandsocialcohesion