Enhancing youth programs for nation-building
Our people should be able to walk the streets safely, live peacefully and earn an honest living without fear.
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Daily TribuneOur people should be able to walk the streets safely, live peacefully and earn an honest living without fear.
Our youth are not only the future of our nation — they are already making a difference today. As chairman of the Senate Committee on Youth, I firmly believe that empowering young Filipinos with the right values, opportunities and support is one of the best investments we can make for our country’s future.
This was reaffirmed during the Romblon Sangguniang Kabataan Congress 2026 in Pasay City on 22 July, where we had the opportunity to meet around 300 young leaders. It was inspiring to see many young Filipinos gathered in one place not just to learn, but also to enhance their abilities to lead and serve their constituents.
I reminded our youth that they do not have to wait for the right time to make a difference. Every community project they initiate, every young person they inspire and every constituent they serve contributes to building a stronger nation. Leadership is not measured by position or age, but by one’s willingness to serve with sincerity and integrity.
As our national hero Dr. Jose Rizal once said, “Ang kabataan ang pag-asa ng bayan.” These words are more than an inspiring quote; they are a challenge that carries responsibility because the future of our nation is in the hands of our youth.
To our young leaders, my message is simple.
First, stay informed. Effective leadership means understanding the real issues our people face. When we understand the realities on the ground, our programs and advocacies will be anchored on practical solutions.
Second, stand firm against corruption. Every cent lost to corruption is a cent taken away from healthcare, education, social services and other vital sectors of our country. This is the people’s money and should be returned to them through efficient government service.
Finally, I encouraged our SK officials not to limit themselves to traditional activities. We urged them to develop initiatives that directly improve the lives of young Filipinos. Let us think of practical solutions — small-scale livelihood programs and skills training for our out-of-school youth. Give them hands-on skills so they can earn a living and help feed their families. In this small but meaningful way, step by step, we help eradicate poverty in our communities.
As a member of the Senate Committee on Local Government, I supported measures that strengthen local governance and empower barangay and youth officials to deliver more effective public service.
We have Republic Act 12232, which sets the term of barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan officials at four years to allow incumbent officials sufficient time to implement and complete programs that benefit their communities.
We likewise continue to support digital governance reforms as one of the authors and co-sponsors of Republic Act 12023, or the E-Governance Act, which seeks to streamline government processes, reduce red tape, and make public services more efficient, transparent and accessible.
Recognizing the indispensable role of frontline healthcare workers, we also refiled Senate Bill 412, which seeks to institutionalize the compensation, benefits and incentives of barangay health workers.
Nation-building is a shared responsibility. The government can provide direction and resources, but lasting progress depends on citizens who are willing to serve with integrity and compassion, and I am confident that the future of our nation is in good hands.
Meanwhile, on 21 July, we personally visited our kababayans affected by fire incidents in Barangays 163 and 152 in Tondo, Manila.
On 23 July, we attended the 48th Induction Ceremonies of the Rotary Club of Downtown Manila in Quezon City upon the invitation of Membership Director Wilbert Loa. I congratulated the organization’s incoming officers and members, led by President Arlene Jane Tanchay, as they formally accepted the responsibility of guiding the club through another year of volunteerism, community development and humanitarian service.
