Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya— Young leaders from Nueva Vizcaya gathered for a mock session at the Sangguniang Panlalawigan on November 15, 2024, in an event designed to give young officials a hands-on experience in local governance. The session aimed to cultivate a generation of informed and active citizens provided a platform for these young leaders to discuss pressing issues affecting the province’s youth, including child exploitation, mental health, child neglect, among others.\
During the discussions, Hon. Jeslyn E. Mellena, representing the Vice Governor and Presiding Officer Hon. Eufemia A. Dacayo encouraged an exchange of ideas, emphasizing the importance of youth involvement in addressing various challenges. She highlighted that young people must be at the forefront of shaping policies that directly impact them because she believe that they are not just leaders of tomorrow but of today.
The session also highlighted issues and concerns on mental health support focusing on a call to expand services in schools and create safe spaces for youth discussions. Various measures were also tackled on child exploitation, including the need for stronger community vigilance and partnerships with law enforcement. Addressing teenage pregnancy and child neglect, the young officials discussed education initiatives and support systems for at-risk families.
Lasting for almost 3 hours, the mock session involved youth perspectives in creating a safe and healthy environment for all Nueva Vizcaya residents such as Young Board Member Delbert D. Tidang represented by Hon. Cassandra C. Quiling of Dupax del Norte High School stood to highlight the essential role of parenting in fostering mental awareness among the youth. She stressed that young people often struggle with mental health issues due to a lack of parental support and understanding, emphasizing that improved parenting can provide stability and security for children and teens.
Meanwhile, Governor Jose V. Gambito’s administration has consistently emphasized youth development and family welfare, aligning closely with the issues raised in the mock session. Young Governor is represented by Hon. Daniella P. Dumocmat from Bagabag National High School. Other Young Officials include (from the North) Hon. Marc Justin D. Pimentel; Hon. Gracelet S. Mueca; Hon. Ashley Darylle L. Jallorina; Hon. Augie L. Tamulong; Hon. Athena Loraine B. Peralta. (From the South) Hon. Axle Dave L. Conde; Hon. Geraldine P. Ligon: Hon. Eliel Stephen O. Galacio; Hon. Ricardo R. Camacho, Jr.; Hon. Cassandra C. Quiling. Ex-officio members are Young Officials including Hon. Luisa A. Cueva; Hon. Emerson Quimby Y. Cawagdan; Hon. Whalid A. Balguzar; Hon. Rzel A. Flores; Hon., Daryl Jude F. Daran; and Hon. Moya Princess V. Seriosa. /gpp
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