In a historic and timely gathering at the start of the election season, over 100 youth organizations, national government agencies, and local government units (LGUs) convened at the YNFORM Capitalization Event held at the Park Inn by Radisson North EDSA in Quezon City. The event launched a powerful call to action advocating for the right to accurate information and participatory governance.
This milestone event marked the culmination of the Youth-led Network for the Right to Information (YNFORM) project, a groundbreaking initiative led by the Center for Youth Advocacy and Networking (CYAN), Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung Philippines, and the Generation Peace Youth Network, with support from the European Union.
The gathering included representatives from various key government bodies, including:
- Presidential Communications Office – Communications and Capacity Development Division
- Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) – National Barangay Operations Office (NBOO)
- National Privacy Commission
- National Anti-Poverty Commission
- Commission on Human Rights (CHR) and numerous LGUs.
The event celebrated the collective achievements of young Filipinos in advancing transparency and accountability, while sharing impactful testimonies and lessons learned throughout the project.
“This gathering is a testament to the unwavering strength of young people as catalysts for meaningful change,” said KC Esguerra, SORA Pilipinas. “Through the YNFORM project, we’ve amplified the voices of youth leaders and paved the way for transformative reforms that prioritize transparency, inclusivity, and good governance.”
The dialogue emphasized the critical importance of collaboration between youth, government, and civil society in ensuring access to accurate and reliable information for all. Participants reaffirmed their commitment to advancing reforms that will empower voters with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions.
The event culminated in a symbolic act of solidarity: participants wrote their aspirations for a more informed and progressive society on ballot papers, which were then placed into a ballot box. This poignant gesture symbolized the collective hope for a future where every citizen has the knowledge and agency to shape their communities.
This landmark gathering serves as a rallying cry for transparency, accountability, and participatory governance. It reaffirms the role of young Filipinos as leaders of change and marks the beginning of a new chapter—one that will drive sustainable reforms and foster a nation of informed and empowered citizens.
Local Government Units:
- Councilor Atty. Jeromme Lacbay of Lumban, Laguna
- Municipal Government of Nagcarlan
- Municipal Government of General Santos
- Municipal Government of Upi
- SK Federation of Tagaytay City
- City Government of Cagayan de Oro
- City Government of Naga
- Sangguniang Kabataan Officials from Quezon City
- Sangguniang Kabataan Officials from Cavite
- City Government of Santiago, Isabela
- Sangguniang Kabataan Officials from Manila
National Agencies and Offices:
- Presidential Communications Office – Communications and Capacity Development Division
- Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) – National Barangay Operations Office (NBOO)
- National Privacy Commission
- National Anti-Poverty Commission
- Commission on Human Rights (CHR)
- International Organizations:
- European Union