In celebration of National Children’s Month, The Rising Youth (TRY) by Virlanie organized the Youth Summit 2023, with the theme: Arat na’t Aksiyunan, Birth Certificate para sa Pagkakakilanlan held on November 25, 2023 at the FEU Tech Innovation Center. The event brought together young minds from diverse backgrounds, united by a common goal: to learn about Birth Registration and its importance to their future.
The Youth Summit kicked off with a powerful opening by Ms. Arlyne A. Fernandez, Virlanie Foundation’s Executive Director. According to her, Youth Summit 2023 is the best avenue to ask questions about Birth Registration. You may not see any importance at this time, but in the future, when you will have your own family, it is better that the change should start from you and that you make sure that your child is registered.
TRY performed their advocacy piece, “Kamalayan”. Ang KAMALAYAN, isang uri ng speech choir, ang isa sa kanilang adbokasiya upang ipaglaban ang Karapatan ng mga bata, buksan ang isipan ng mga tagapag-alaga, at magbigay kamalayan (awareness) sa mga manonood sa totoong nararanasan ng mga bata sa ating lipunan.
Participants listened to three powerful speakers from various fields, namely: Mr. John Patrick Sedantes, Programs and Partnership Manager of Association Soeur Emmanuelle; Mr. Romeo Alcantara Jr., Planning Team Head and Supply Officer of Makati City Civil Registration Office; and Mr. Gilbert Panganiban, RSW, Street-based Social Worker of Virlanie Foundation, sharing their insights on Birth Registration, its process, legal concerns, opportunities, and challenges. Their words resonated with the attendees, sparking sense of purpose and learning.
Two of the TRY officers also gave testimonials about their Birth Registration experience and its impact on their identity, school, and employment records. This was followed by an open forum wherein most of the participants engaged by asking questions about their Birth Registration problems to all the speakers. It showcased the power of informed discussions in driving meaningful change
In conclusion, Birth registration is not just a process but a future. It is the first step in establishing a person’s legal identity and citizenship. This will also help an individual access government services, and protect his or her rights, and other opportunities in the future.
The Youth Summit 2023 stands as a testament to the potential, passion, and purpose of the youth. It also served as a reminder that the youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow but are actively contributing to positive change today.
