The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is partnering with the National Youth Commission (NYC) for the launch of the Kabataan sa Bagong Pilipinas Congress in April 2026.
Undersecretary Edu Punay of the DSWD’s Innovations and Program Development Group (IPDG) met with NYC Chairperson Jeff Ortega at the DSWD Central Office in Quezon City on Monday (January 19) to discuss initial plans and coordination efforts for the upcoming youth congress.
Undersecretary Punay, who also serves as the Tara, Basa! Tutoring Program National Director, stressed the importance of recognizing the youth as active partners in development.
“Our youth are not just leaders of tomorrow, they are partners in nation-building today,” Undersecretary Punay said as he pointed out that the congress seeks to strengthen opportunities for the youth by equipping them with relevant skills, values, and capacities.
“This Congress aims to nurture positive attitudes, encourage social and behavioral change, and instill good manners as foundations for responsible citizenship,” Undersecretary Punay said.
The initial partnership meeting focused on ensuring that the congress will be a meaningful and impactful platform for youth leaders and participants from across the country.
The discussions included program direction, content, and strategies aimed at empowering young Filipinos to actively participate in nation-building and community development.
Joining Undersecretary Punay and Chairperson Ortega in the meeting were Tara, Basa! Deputy Program Manager Elma Salamat, Director Paul Ang, other members of the program’s management committee, and representatives from the NYC.
Both agencies reaffirmed their commitment to closely collaborate to ensure the successful implementation of the Kabataan sa Bagong Pilipinas Congress, positioning it as a key platform for youth engagement, leadership development, and civic participation in 2026. (CC)
