52nd National Council meeting & 112th Anniversary Celebration of YMCA of the Philippines

The 52nd National Council Meeting began with a parade featuring delegates from each local YMCA proudly displaying their banners, all adorned with a unified logo. The adoption of this shared logo aims to enhance the branding and visibility of each local YMCA, contributing to a cohesive and unified organizational identity.

1st Vice President Atty. Elmer C. Balbin, express his warm and gracious welcome to the 52nd National Council Meeting. Emphasizing excitement that gather everyone on that day to embark on a journey of collaboration, innovation, and progress. As it commence this momentous occasion, reflecting on the spirit of unity that brings us together and sets the stage for meaningful discussions, shared insights, and the pursuit of excellence

Executive Secretary for Programs at Asia and Pacific Alliance for YMCAs, Ms. Sunita Sumati Suna shared her experiences in many areas of ecumenical and mission-oriented work through her diverse careers. That includes leadership development, gender justice and women’s participation, eco-justice, peace-building and overcoming violence at national, regional and global levels, as well as developing and strengthening movements and networking on various levels.

From the point of view of Ms. Suna, The YMCA Vision 2030 is a global initiative with the goal of positively impacting communities worldwide. The initiative focuses on several key areas, including strengthening communities by addressing issues like poverty and inequality, youth empowerment through leadership and skill-building programs, global collaboration to maximize impact and innovation, promoting health and well-being with a focus on physical and mental health, and environmental sustainability to address climate change and promote responsible consumption. The Vision 2030 aims to make the YMCA a global leader in community development by fostering inclusivity and social cohesion.

PLENARY SESSION

Engr. Antonio C. Keh, the National President, and Mr. Orlando F. Carreon, the OIC-National General Secretary, presented the findings of the annual Joint National President & National General Secretary meeting. This encompassed all the reports conducted by the National Board throughout 2023, including those submitted by the local YMCAs.

Followed by the Annual Treasurer’s Report by Mr. Merfred B. Belino, the National Treasurer which was commended by the body for his performance as the National Treasurer.

Ms. Christine Ianne J. Aquino, OIC-National Program Secretary, and Mr. Rovin Jhon Cincollagas provided a comprehensive overview of the implementation of the 3 year YMCA Philippines Strategic plan and the four pillars of Vision 2030 during their discussion. They delved into the specific goals, strategies, and initiatives associated with each pillar, shedding light on the detailed aspects of the vision and its transformative impact on the organization’s future endeavors.

The representatives from various local YMCAs participated in a workshop focused on the six pillars of impact outlined by the YMCA of the Philippines, organized into five regions.
1. North Luzon Region – Mr. Juanito C. Bacani
2. Manila Bay Region – Ms. Ivory C. Manio
3. South Luzon Region – Ms. Julie Ann F. Catalan
4. Visayas Region – Mr. Ramil Perez
5. Mindanao Region – Ms. Sylvia Piedad & Ms. Rogelyn Razon

Pstr. Robert B. Sison started the Anniversary Program with the invocation which was then followed by the Opening Remarks of the National Auditor, Mr. Rodolfo V. Tolentino.

Past National President Atty. Eduardo P. Pilapil graced the Anniversary program as the Guest Speaker, delivering a heartfelt message.

Recognizing various individuals and local YMCAs

NEWLY CERTIFIED SECRETARY

GOLD VISION TRIANGLE SERVICE AWARD

Atty. Elmer C. Balbin – YMCA of Negros Occidental

GOLD TRIANGLE SERVICE AWARD

SPECIAL AWARD OF RECOGNITION

Mr. Philip S. Abello
YMCA of Negros Occidental

BEST PERFORMING YMCA

PERFORMING YMCA

Unable to attend:
1. Manila Downtown YMCA
2. YMCA of Cebu

PRESIDENTIAL AWARD

OUTGOING BOARD
1. Mr. Merfred B. Belino
2. Dr. Edilberto R. Abalos
3. Mr. Rodolfo V. Tolentino
4. Mr. Ain Art V. Atos
5. Mr. Liberato G. Siaron
6. Mr. Hero O. Go
7. Atty. Alphon R. Lagamon
8. Ms. Alaizaville C. Mendoza
9. Mr. Victor O. Lau

PLENARY SESSION 2

Mr. Hero O. Go, Chair of Youth Committee enthusiastically shared the annual report of the highly anticipated National Youth Assembly.

Mr. Go Addresses the issue of the revival of the YMCA of the Philippines Youth Network (YPYN) which shall be composed of youth representatives from different regions. The YPYN will serve as an avenue for young leaders from different regions to connect and exchange ideas transforming lives through vision 2030.

Mr. Go also focuses building a united community, addressing challenges collaboratively, instilling core values, developing capacities, promoting knowledge sharing, learning from successful practices, fostering leadership in a safe environment, encouraging ongoing participation, and maintaining social relevance through community engagement.

Dr. Evangeline M. Baladad, Performance Review Commission Chair reported the seven key areas, including Program, Youth Affairs, Finance, Human Capital Development, Member Association Affairs & Expansion, Property, and Legal Affairs & Amendments. Each commission member contributes to a comprehensive report, reflecting the collective achievements and efforts of the Federation in 2023.

Atty. Antonio B. Patroza, Jr., in his role as Vice Chair of the Nomination Commission, provided the report on behalf of Mr. Victor Lau, featuring the nominees from different regions.

Ms. Hanniel M. Saus, serving as the Vice Chair of the Election Commission, presented the report affirming the selection of regional representatives for the year 2024.

WORLD YWCA – YMCA Week of Prayer

The YWCA and YMCA of the Philippines collaborated to create a week filled with meaningful activities. Each week was dedicated to a different aspect of prayer and reflection, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose. The seeds of unity, planted during those week, continued to grow, inspiring individuals to embody the principles of the YWCA and YMCA in their daily lives.

Introduction of the forthcoming 2024 National Board

As we draw the curtains on the 52nd National Council Meeting and the joyous celebration of our 112th anniversary, the National Board Trustees stands with immense gratitude and pride. This gathering has been a testament to our unwavering commitment to unity, progress, and the shared values that bind us together.

Congratulations Yérs!

May the connections forged here fuel our passion for positive change, and may the shared vision that has sustained us for 112 years continue to guide our steps into the future.

We have observed the resilience of our united spirit, sensed the heartbeat of our common purpose, and celebrated the close-knit fellowship that characterizes our organization.

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