Ranaw Youth Summit focuses on collective action, empowerment

MARAWI CITY (PIA) — Over 200 young leaders from Lanao del Sur participated in the 5th Ranaw Youth Organizations’ Summit (RYOS) held recently at the New Capitol Complex, this city.

Under the theme “Sailing through the Waves of Change,” the summit focused on empowering the youth through the 5Cs of youth development: Competence, Character, Care, Connection, and Confidence.

Keynote speakers addressed various topics during the summit. Rafaela “Paeng” David, co-convenor of the West Philippine Sea ATIN ITO! coalition, highlighted civilian empowerment in addressing the West Philippine Sea issue. She stated that the response to foreign militarization should prioritize civilian efforts and supply missions.

“If China is militarizing our West Philippine Sea, ang response ba natin i-militarize din siya? Sa amin, hindi. Ang response dapat natin i-civilianize siya. Ang kapangyarihan dapat nasa ordinaryong mamamayan. And that was the necessary response. We occupy it because it’s ours. For every act of Chinese aggression, we must respond with more civilian supply missions. Muli, civilian power,” David said.

(If China is militarizing our West Philippine Sea, should our response be also militarize it? For us, no. Our response should be to civilianize it. Power should be in the hands of ordinary citizens. And that was the necessary response. We occupy it because it’s ours. For every act of Chinese aggression, we must respond with more civilian supply missions. Again, civilian power.)

David also emphasized the importance of supplementing government efforts in the West Philippine Sea by civilianizing approaches, asserting the country’s rights.

“The challenge to you is to navigate beyond sailing and harness the waves of change. Let’s ensure these waves are present so that when we sail, it becomes easier,” she added.

The government of Lanao del Sur conducted the 5th Ranaw Youth Organizations’ Summit (RYOS) at the New Capitol Complex, focusing on the theme "Sailing through the Waves of Change." The summit emphasized the 5Cs of youth development: Competence, Character, Care, Connection, and Confidence. The event featured a series of keynote speakers who addressed various aspects of youth engagement and empowerment. (Photo courtesy of Ranaw Youth Development Office

5Cs of youth development

Lawyer Alexander Dumpa from the Legal Education Board discussed Competence, offering practical advice on habits and skills. Aleem Nor-Jamal Batugan from the Bangsamoro Commission for the Preservation of Cultural Heritage addressed Character, focusing on integrating science, faith, and culture. Jamal Pandapatan, founding president of Kalombayan Kilos and Akbayan Youth member, spoke on Care, encouraging societal action and sharing his journey.

Prof. Yasmira Moner of the Gender and Development Center – Mindanao State University (MSU)-Iligan Institute of Technology discussed Confidence, highlighting the impact of effective communication. Jalalodin Mustari, founder of Aretes Style, spoke on Connections, demonstrating how relationships can drive change.

Prof. Tirmizy Abdullah of MSU Marawi shared insights on the historical values of Lanao del Sur, emphasizing self-determination and resistance.

The government of Lanao del Sur conducted the 5th Ranaw Youth Organizations’ Summit (RYOS) at the New Capitol Complex, focusing on the theme "Sailing through the Waves of Change." The summit emphasized the 5Cs of youth development: Competence, Character, Care, Connection, and Confidence. The event featured a series of keynote speakers who addressed various aspects of youth engagement and empowerment. (Photo courtesy of Ranaw Youth Development Office)

Call to action

Lanao del Sur Second District Board Member Abdulhamid Amirbitor recognized the youth as a vital force for the province’s progress, urging them to view the summit as a starting point for ongoing efforts toward a better future.

He also encouraged them to apply their insights to drive positive change and collaborate with purpose.

Meanwhile, Jamil Faisal “Jeff” Adiong, Provincial Youth Development Officer, emphasized the crucial role of youth engagement in addressing local challenges.

“When the community collectively addresses our challenges, we strengthen our voice and promote development,” Adiong said. (ABR/EZMM/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)