The 2024 Children Congress brought together 54 student leaders from various public and private high schools across the province, spearheaded by the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO), in collaboration with the Department of Education (DepEd) – Youth Formation Division on October 5, 2024, at the DepEd-Nueva Vizcaya Conference Hall.
The congress featured leadership training and workshops aimed at enhancing the participants’ leadership skills and understanding of basic parliamentary procedures. Following the training, the election of Young Provincial Officials took place, providing 18 student leaders a unique opportunity to experience local governance firsthand.
Daniela P. Dumocmat from Bagabag National High School was elected as Young Governor, with Jeslyn E. Mellena from Bintawan National High School as Young Vice Governor. The elected Young Board Members include Marc Justin L. Jallorina (Nueva Vizcaya General Comprehensive High School), Ashley Darrylle L. Jallorina (Saint Jerome’s Academy of Bagabag Inc.), Gracelet S. Mueca (Aldersgate College Inc.), Augie Tamulong (Solano High School), Athena Loraine B. Peralta (Saint Mary’s University Senior High School), Axle Conde (Lamo National High School), Geraldine P. Ligon (St. Teresita’s Academy of Aritao Inc.), Eliel Stephen O. Galacio (Bambang National High School), Ricardo A. Camacho Jr. (Sta. Cruz Pingkian High School), Cassandra Quiling (Dupax del Norte National High School), Luisa A. Cueva (Diadi National High School), Emerson Quimby Y. Cawagdan (Paniki High School), Rzel Flores (Sta. Fe National High School), and Whalid A. Balguzar (Kasibu National Agricultural school). Darryl Jude Ferrer Darran from Dupax del Sur National High School was appointed Young SP Secretary, while Moya Princess V. Seriosa from Murong National High School in Bagabag was designated as Young Provincial Administrator.
Governor Atty. Jose V. Gambito expressed his commitment to advancing initiatives for the welfare and protection of children, stating, “I will continue to ensure that the provincial government implements the right policies and programs to safeguard the rights of every Kabataang Vizcayano while promoting their well-being and integral development.”
The 2023 Young Provincial Officials, headed by former Young Governor Jaydine Panganiban, were also awarded with the Carlos M. Padilla Leadership Award presented by former Governor Ruth R. Padilla, the widow of the late Governor Carlos M. Padilla, along with Board Member Patricio F. Dumlao Jr., and PSWD Officer Flordelina C. Granada. The award recognizes the enduring legacy of Governor Carlos M. Padilla, a revered statesman, leader, and the father of the province.
The newly elected Young Provincial Officials will have their first official meeting with their provincial counterparts on November 4, 2024, during the flag-raising ceremony at the People’s Stage. / cqc
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