By Alec Duane P. Pascua, Grade 10-SJSA
Photos By Ma. Nita V. Bolo
It was just another ordinary day in October when I was invited to join the 18th National Youth Congress (NYC). I was initially indecisive about accepting the invitation because of the load of my academic activities but I ended up becoming part of the NYC anyway.
My experiences within the event such as the team building competitions and workshop activities made me conclude that I’m really glad that this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to transform my societal views came. At the NYC, I virtually met different kinds of people, from politicians to student leaders. They made an impact on me through their speeches and presentations. I learned about current national issues and about how we, as Filipino youth, can tackle socio-economic problems through joint efforts while never leaving anyone behind.
It was also very interesting to see the different projects that the students from different schools proposed. Proposals like sustainable farming and improved housing were impressive.
Above all the experiences, I have made many new friends during the NYC, and each person I met gave me a lesson. Overall, I felt empowered because of this event and my immersion with fellow youth broadened my horizon about my role in nation building.
* Alec is among the five Thomasian delegates to the 18th National Youth Congress. The Congress included at least 300 selected participants from public and private high schools all over the Philippines.
