Mayor urges youth to practice ‘courageous leadership’

Mayor Benjamin Magalong reminded the country’s youth leaders that the future is shaped not by chance but by the courageous leadership they practice today during the recent 12th Philippines I Transform! Leaders’ Convention held in the Summer Capital with the theme, “A Decade of Action: From Ridge to Reef, Saving Our Planet”.

At the transformational leadership and climate action event, the Mayor stressed the urgency of collective action in the face of climate change, environmental challenges and widening social inequalities.

He commended the youth for their passion, intelligence and commitment, reminding them that they are leaders not just for tomorrow but for today since they are already influencing communities through numerous youth-led catalyst projects nationwide.

In his message, Magalong talked on leadership grounded in integrity and purpose; knowledge as both power and protection especially against corruption and disinformation; the importance of voter registration, participation and civic engagement; creativity as a tool to inspire change and reshape narratives; the duty to demand accountability and speak truth to power; and living the change through leading by example in both small and big decisions.

He also urged the delegates to carry forward the fire of transformation as they return to their schools, communities, and organizations. – Mark Ryan Montes and Gaby Keith