The Hope Builders Organization Negros Island Inc. (HBONI) inspired and empowered young leaders as it led HANDURAYO, a two-day leadership training held on March 28–29, 2025, at Binalbagan National High School in Binalbagan, Negros Occidental.

Over 140 student leaders from Binalbagan National High School (BNHS), Binalbagan National High School – Santol Extension (BNHS-SE), and Payao National High School (PYNHS) participated in the district-wide leadership training organized by the BNHS – Supreme Secondary Learner Government (BNHS-SSLG) with the theme, “Paghanda, Pag-uswag, Pagpanguna.”

HBONI discussed concepts on the Bridging Leadership framework and stakeholder engagement that can be applied by the student-leaders in initiating projects, programs, and activities within the school and beyond. Additionally, the organization prepared teambuilding activities that reflect collaboration, teamwork, creativity, and other leadership qualities and values.

Through the initiative of the BNHS-SSLG headed by its adviser, Mr. Maoel John Barredo, Handurayo took place in preparation for the next set of officers for the next school year.

Barredo highlighted the prime goal of the training and reminded the participants of their vital role in the development of the school community and in leading their fellow learners.

The first-ever district-wide leadership training made a great impression among the participants, reflecting on their shared vision, mission, goals, and values in creating initiatives.

Handurayo is a deep Hiligaynon word that means “vision.” It speaks powerfully to students who actively seek to make a difference in the lives of the youth—the very ones Dr. Jose Rizal called the “Pag-asa ng Bayan” or “Hope of the Motherland.”

Through Handurayo, they carry a clear purpose: to envision, inspire, and help build a brighter future for the next generation.

BNHS hopes to implement HANDURAYO 2.0 in the next school year to achieve empowered student leaders.*