AFP seeks to empower Lanao Norte youth peace advocates

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 25): AFP seeks to empower Lanao Norte youth peace advocates

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), in partnership with the local government units of Lanao del Norte, spearheaded the Youth Leadership Summit (YLS) held at the Mindanao Civic Center in this town on Sunday.

Some 75 youth leaders from 15 municipalities of this province joined the YSL camp activity, now on its third year, with the theme: “Empowering the Youth as Advocates of Peace and Solitary Towards a Progressive Nation.”

“The youth leadership summit enhances leadership traits and it depends on how we develop them in our minds. I believe that every one of us are born to be leaders but it has to start from ourselves before we share it to others,” said Lipnikki Maghinay, a participant from Salvador town.

Jurdine Kit Mahilum, a Sangguniang Kabataan chairman in Kauswagan town, underscored the importance of empowering young people to keep them away from violent extremism.

During the three-day summit, youth leaders heard lectures on criminality, drug addiction and prevention, cultural sensitivity, preventing and countering violent extremism, as well as leadership development and interpersonal communication.

Lieutenant Col. Ronel R. Manalo, commanding officer of the Army's 5th Mechanized Battalion, said the AFP hopes the event has equipped young people with the necessary knowledge in dealing with growth and maturity issues, as well as in "avoiding the wrong path as they soar for their dreams."

The yearly summit, Manalo said, aims to empower the youth to become peace advocates in their own communities.

“This year's theme exemplifies the role of the youth as catalysts in achieving a peaceful and progressive community," Manalo said, adding he hopes that "no wars, no crimes, no drugs and organized groups are out to destroy the promising opportunities for the youth like you and the next generation.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1039400