More than 300 student leaders from across Negros Island gathered at the Clemente Sports Complex of Central Philippines State University (CPSU) in Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental, on August 29, 2025, for the Negrense Youth Convergence (NYC) 2025, a groundbreaking event that empowered the youth to take local action toward achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The NYC, organized by the Hope Builders Organization Negros Island Inc. (HBONI), coincided with the celebration of International Youth Day and carried the theme, “Empowering Local Youth Action on Sustainable Development Goals.” This year’s discussions centered on five key SDGs: Quality Education (SDG 4), Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8), Climate Action (SDG 13), Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions (SDG 16), and Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17).

Experts Share Insights on SDGs

Panelists and guest speakers—experts in their respective fields—delivered thought-provoking talks that underscored the role of the youth in building a sustainable future.

Dr. Riza Stephanie Alfaras, Dean of the CPSU Graduate School, spoke on SDG 4: Quality Education, stressing that education is a fundamental right.

“You [the youth] are equal in learning opportunities. You have the right to be educated. Build a future with hope through education. What the youth can do is H.O.P.E. — Harnessing Opportunities for People’s Education,” she urged.

For SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, Ms. Sybel Nobleza, Head for External Affairs of the Association of Negros Producers Inc. (ANP), highlighted successful community development stories such as Sitio Madaha in Brgy. Buenavista, transformed through livelihood projects like BALIK Salig and Project Tikang.

“Since 2022, we were able to implement 12 targets that generated best practices, community impact, and multi-actor partnerships that empowered even the most vulnerable,” she shared.

On SDG 13: Climate Action, Ma. Theresa Pialago, Public Information Officer of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Negros Occidental, stressed the urgency of climate action.

“Young people aren’t the leaders of tomorrow. They are the leaders of today and tomorrow,” she emphasized, calling on the youth to take an active role in protecting natural resources and building resilient communities.


Sergeant Cristian Jay Bantayo, Philippine Air Force reservist and Brigada Mass Media Corporation Area Manager for Visayas, tackled SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions.

“Peace and justice must be lived out with compassion, humanity, and faith. It begins within ourselves and extends to the institutions we build,” he reminded participants.

Meanwhile, Engineer Glady Reyes, Assistant Provincial Director of the Department of Science and Technology – Negros Occidental, focused on SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.

“Make the positive change in science and technology. There is no limit to what we can achieve together,” she said, challenging young innovators to collaborate and create sustainable solutions.


A Call for Youth Leadership

Adding weight to the convergence was the inspirational presence of Hon. Ralph Alvarez, Board Member and Acting Vice Governor of Negros Occidental, who represented Hon. Mercedes Alvarez, 6th District Congresswoman.

“I leave you with one sincere appeal: as young leaders, please take it upon yourselves to pass on these core values to those younger than you. Your contributions will make a lasting and meaningful impact,” Alvarez told the youth.

Empowering the Next Generation

Beyond discussions, the NYC 2025 showcased how young people can be catalysts for meaningful change. With nearly 90% of the world’s youth population residing in developing countries (UNESCO, 2023), the convergence underscored the urgency of equipping them with the knowledge, networks, and opportunities to drive sustainable development.

The event was co-presented by Brigada News FM Kabankalan and Central Philippines State University, in partnership with the CPSU Supreme Student Government, Future Leaders of the Philippines, the Local Youth Development Office of Kabankalan City, and the Provincial Youth Development Office of Negros Occidental.

By the end of the convergence, one message resonated clearly: the youth are not just participants in the pursuit of the SDGs—they are leaders of today shaping the future of Negros Island and beyond.