UP Asian Center, UP-CIFAL Philippines organize youth competition and forum on sustainability

14 March 2025—UP-CIFAL Philippines with the Asian Center, University of the Philippines Diliman successfully concluded the Youth-in-Charge: Environmental Action of Youth as Champions of Sustainability, a forum and competition to present groundbreaking solutions aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Held at the GT Toyota Asian Center Auditorium, University of the Philippines Diliman campus, the event gathered student teams, experts, and advocates to foster youth-led innovation for a sustainable future.

YIC 2025 featured a series of insightful discussions, project presentations, and networking opportunities. Student participants from high schools and college organizations in the National Capital Region presented creative ideas addressing key global challenges such as climate action, social entrepreneurship, and digital inclusion.

“Your projects are a testament that young leaders are not just leaders of tomorrow, but also changemakers of today,” Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs of the UP System Shari Niña Oliquino states in her welcoming remarks. Joining her in opening the event were UP Diliman Vice Chancellor for Community Affairs Jerwin Agpaoa and Asian Center Dean Noel Moratilla.

Distinguished speakers and panelists from various sectors offered valuable insights and mentorship to the young innovators. Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology, Hon. Renato Solidum Jr., emphasized the importance of transitioning to a circular economy and how young leaders can drive this transformation. Yujeong Kim, Senior Programme Management Officer at the UN Environment Programme – Asia Pacific Office, encouraged youth groups to consider accreditation with UNEP, which would grant them special status to participate in key meetings such as the UN Environment Assembly. This would provide them with an opportunity to influence decisions on environmental issues and advocate for meaningful change.

Lecture sessions were also held by youth leaders. Youth Climate Reality Leader, Rain Bello, underscored the urgency of involving youth in shaping global environmental policies. Ranze Aaron Calderon, Executive Director of UN 2030 Youth Force in the Philippines, discussed the need to mobilize youth for the 2030 Agenda. Through collaboration and inclusive participation, he stressed, we can ensure a brighter and more sustainable future for all.

The Youth-In-Charge competition has officially concluded with remarkable performances from student organizations across Metro Manila. The competition, which celebrated leadership, innovation, and community service, saw exceptional talent and dedication from both high school and collegiate organizations.

People’s Choice Award Winners (determined by public voting):

• High School: Student Coordinating Body, Espiritu Santo Parochial School of Manila, Inc.
• College/University: Community Outreach Movement Pro-Active Students Service, Centro Escolar University Makati

The Best Presenter Award, which honored outstanding presentation skills, was awarded to:

• High School: Bosconian Young Farmers Club, Don Bosco Technical College
• College/University: Adamson University IT & IS Society, Adamson University

Youth-In-Charge Competition 2025 Results:

High School Level:

• 3rd Place: Bosconian Young Farmers Club, Don Bosco Technical College
• 2nd Place: Youth for Environment in Schools Organization (Yes-O), Timoteo Paez Integrated School, Tondo, Manila
• 1st Place: STEM Club, Sta. Elena High School

College/University Level:

• 3rd Place: Adamson University IT & IS Society, Adamson University
• 2nd Place: UP NCPAG Student Council, University of the Philippines Diliman
• 1st Place: UP Circuit, University of the Philippines Diliman