Youth representatives and members of Hope Builders Organization Negros Island joined delegates from Negros Occidental and Negros Oriental for the 1st Negros Island Region Global Citizenship Education (GCED) Youth Congress 2025, held on November 28–29, 2025 in Cadiz City, Negros Occidental. The two-day congress aimed to empower young leaders through dynamic learning sessions, collaborative workshops, and project development activities grounded in global citizenship and sustainable development.

In her message of support, Dr. Maria Fatima P. Dolendo, Head of Extension, Alumni, Linkages, and Internationalization, reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to strengthening GCED-driven initiatives. She emphasized the importance of expanding programs that nurture responsible, globally minded young leaders both within the campus and across neighboring communities.

Delegates also heard an inspiring virtual address from Dr. Rowena R. Hibanada, Director of Global Citizenship College Philippines, who highlighted the critical role of young people in advancing national efforts toward global citizenship. She encouraged participants to continue championing sustainability and inclusive development in their local contexts.

The first day centered on three key learning sessions designed to broaden participants’ understanding of GCED and its application in youth leadership:“Forging the GCED Youth Network’s Path Forward”, “Integrating GCED in Youth Glocal Action”, and “Identifying and Addressing Glocal Sustainability Issues through Youth-led Projects in NIR”. These sessions provided youth delegates with a clearer strategic vision, practical tools for community action, and relevant frameworks for addressing local challenges through a global lens.

The second day featured the final learning session, “Sustaining Community-Based Youth-Led Projects,” delivered by Kenneth Bacala, Founder and Chairperson of Hope Builders Organization Negros Island (HBONI). Bacala shared actionable strategies for ensuring the longevity and impact of youth initiatives, underscoring the importance of aligning project goals with GCED outcomes. His personal story—how a simple advocacy grew into HBONI—motivated participants to begin with small but purposeful steps toward community transformation.

Following the session, delegates presented their GCEDized Project Proposals, which were evaluated by a panel composed of Mr. Bacala, Dean Gliceria Arlyn G. Garancho, Dr. Noel S. Marañon, and Mr. Jerand John D. Magbanua. The panel offered constructive insights to help strengthen and refine the initiatives for real-world implementation.

The congress concluded with the closing message of Dean Gliceria Arlyn G. Garancho, Hub Lead and Dean for Academics. She encouraged the youth to rise, take up space, and embrace their roles as transformative leaders equipped to shape positive change in their communities and beyond.

The 1st NIR GCED Youth Congress marks a significant milestone in reinforcing youth engagement and developing young global citizens dedicated to sustainable and inclusive development across Negros Island Region.

Photo credits: PNU Visayas – GCC Philippines Regional Hub