Theme: “TRANSFORM: Future-Proofing the Youth as Champions of Integrity and Good Governance”
Date: November 6–7, 2025

The 8th National Youth Assembly officially began on November 6, 2025. The event started with a Holy Mass, followed by the ribbon cutting and blessing of the newly inaugurated 7th Floor Convention Center. The Opening Worship was led by Rev. Robert Sison, which set the tone for the meaningful gathering of young leaders and YMCA representatives from across the country.

The Opening Remarks were delivered by OIC–NGS Carreon, who welcomed all delegates and expressed appreciation for their participation. The introduction of the officers and members of the National Board, delegates from local YMCAs, and other guests was facilitated by Ms. Ianne Christine J. Aquino. A total of 42 participants coming from 14 local YMCAs attended the assembly.

Warm greetings were extended by National President Atty. Balbin, followed by the introduction of the Guest of Honor and Keynote Speaker by Mr. Ain Art V. Atos, Chair of the Youth Affairs Committee.

The keynote address was delivered by Atty. James Ceasar A. Ventura, Division Chief of the Regional Youth Development Division of the National Youth Commission. Atty. Ventura, who was once a participant in the National Youth Assembly himself, began his speech by asking the question, “Sino nga ba ang youth?” He shared his past experiences as a former NYA participant and expressed his gratitude for being invited back, this time as the keynote speaker. He shared that he always reminded himself that, “This is my own world.”

Atty. Ventura reflected on the present generation, observing that some youth today no longer feel excited for the future. He posed the question, “How can we think about the present if there are so many problems and negativity happening in society?” He emphasized that we cannot isolate ourselves from the challenges of the world and asked, “Can we truly future-proof our young people?” He then explained that instead of striving to be “future-proof,” it is better to be “future-ready.”

He elaborated that to become future-ready, we must accept that leadership coexists with extension, and that empowerment without critical thinking is not effective. He also mentioned that the system today seems to be fading for this generation, but the youth should not allow themselves to follow this path. He encouraged everyone that it is time for the youth to make changes, to care about their surroundings, and to be excited for the future.

He further emphasized that being in a youth empowerment training program should lead to genuine empowerment. He advised participants to find people who share the same passion for change, build networks, and work toward transparent governance. He concluded his speech by saying that despite the current challenges, “We believe we can change to change — share commitment to this process for the future-proofing of the YMCA of the Philippines.” He left a powerful message that the key is to always be encouraged to become better.

Following the keynote address, the Getting to Know You and Perspective Setting activity was facilitated by Ms. Marianne Joy Cortez, where participants were given the chance to interact and engage with one another.

After lunch, Session 1: Rediscovering Our YMCA Identity was led by Ms. Ma. Magda R. Gana, General Secretary of the YMCA of Makati. In this session, she discussed the basic principles of the YMCA’s Christian foundation, reminding participants of the movement’s values and core identity.

Session 2: Branding the YMCA Youth Voice was facilitated by Mr. Ain Art V. Atos. The participants were divided into four groups for a workshop that involved creating mini digital campaigns reflecting YMCA values through youth branding principles. Each group produced creative campaign titles:

• Group 1: “Choose Christ Today to Keep Enemies Away”
• Group 2: “We’re HAIring”
• Group 3: “Green Begin with YOUth”
• Group 4: “AI Naku” (focused on youth and adolescence)

The next activity was Session 3: Youth Leaders Talk Show facilitated by Ms. Adelene Paula Naig, titled “ADI-LIEVE IN YOUth.” Her invited guests were Atty. Hanniel Saus from YMCA of Manila, Mr. Clyde John D. Borromeo from YMCA of Baguio, Ms. Julie Ann F. Catalan from YMCA of Nueva Caceres (Camarines Sur), and Ms. Rogelyn D. Razon from YMCA of Cagayan de Oro. Ms. Naig conducted the talk show in a lively and interactive manner, asking relevant and relatable questions inspired by trending issues and the latest happenings. The participants found the session engaging, insightful, and entertaining.

The day concluded with the Fellowship Night: YMCA Got Talent and Cultural Exchange. This evening highlighted creativity, cultural pride, and unity among the youth. Delegates showcased their regional talents through performances and native costumes. Several special awards were given, including:

• Best Dressed (Female): Ms. Edelyn C. Dumagpi (YMCA of Cebu)
• Best Dressed (Male): Mr. Yeg Yeshua Quidasol (YMCA of Los Baños)

Talent competition winners per region were announced as follows:

• 4th Runner-up: North Luzon Region
• 3rd Runner-up: Manila Bay Region
• 2nd Runner-up: VisMin Region (Visayas and Mindanao)
• 1st Runner-up: South Luzon Region

The evening was filled with laughter, music, and meaningful fellowship, strengthening the bond among YMCA youth across regions.

Day 2 began with an Opening Worship led by the Manila Bay Region, followed by Round Table Discussions facilitated by Mr. Clyde John D. Borromeo, National Youth Trustee of the YMCA of the Philippines. Participants were grouped by region to discuss current youth issues, YMCA experiences, aspirations, and action points. Each group was tasked to draft a youth statement reflecting their collective vision and commitment.

After deliberation, the groups presented their statements which were later finalized by Mr. Ain Art V. Atos, Chair of the Youth Affairs Committee. The statements expressed strong advocacy for integrity, service, leadership, and transformation.

After the presentations, Atty. Hanniel M. Saus gave an Orientation on the National Council Meeting, providing participants with a better understanding of the YMCA’s governance structure and processes.

The event concluded with the Awarding and Closing Ceremony, where certificates of participation were distributed to all delegates. The participants expressed gratitude for the opportunity to learn, connect, and grow as young leaders under the YMCA movement.

The 8th National Youth Assembly was a success, embodying its theme “TRANSFORM: Future-Proofing the Youth as Champions of Integrity and Good Governance.” It became a venue for rediscovering the YMCA identity, strengthening youth leadership, and inspiring transformation. The assembly empowered young leaders to uphold integrity, embrace service, and continue the mission of the YMCA—to build a better, faith-driven, and future-ready generation of youth leaders.

Read the YMCA Youth Statement 2025, thoughtfully crafted by delegates from various Local YMCAs across the Philippines during the 8th National Youth Assembly.

Their collective vision reflects the passion, commitment, and leadership of today’s young people. We look forward to seeing this statement come to life and inspire meaningful action within our communities.

We are proud to present the key outcomes of the 8th National Youth Assembly, where the delegates’ unified vision demonstrated the dedication, passion, and leadership of today’s youth; and we anticipate this statement transforming into concrete initiatives that will inspire meaningful impact across our communities.