26/05/2026
The Project Youth LEAD: From preparation to purpose, the rise of a children and youth movement for change.
Project Youth LEAD (Leadership, Engagement, Action, Development) is a flagship initiative of the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) of LGU Balanga, developed in strong partnership with Peace Corps Philippines. What began as a simple capacity-building effort has grown into a powerful children and youth-led movement shaping children and young people to become facilitators, educators, and advocates for their own generation.
The journey started on December 16, 2026, through an initial Capacity Building session for youth leaders from schools and barangays. In this foundational gathering, the voices of young people were heard, and the most pressing issues affecting children and youth today were identified. These became the six core themes that would guide the entire program.
As the vision deepened, the initiative moved into a more focused phase of leadership development. On April 8, 2026, fifteen Youth Facilitator Leaders were formally trained through a Training of Trainers program. This marked a turning point where selected youth were prepared not just to learn, but to teach and lead.
On April 15, 2026, more than 80 children and youth engaged in preparatory practice sessions, strengthening their understanding and confidence in delivering the six core topics. These sessions served as a bridge between learning and real community engagement, allowing the youth to experience facilitation before stepping into actual communities.
This journey culminated in the Youth Camp 2026 held on May 7–8, 2026 at Stella Maris Retreat Center in Upper Tuyo. More than 80 Youth LEAD Facilitators officially graduated, stepping forward as empowered young leaders ready to serve their communities after only a short but intensive preparation period.
The true impact of the program unfolded immediately after.
From May 18 to 22, 2026, the Youth LEAD Facilitators conducted their community roll-out sessions across Balanga City. What made this week remarkable was not only the number of participants reached, but the courage and commitment of the young facilitators themselves.
In Cupang West and Cataning, the group EVERYONE reached more than 70 children. In Central and Cupang Proper, THE CLICK engaged over 50 children in meaningful discussions on sensitive but essential youth topics. For the group, GOAL SMASHERS, over 70 children in Tuyo and Bagong Silang joined the sessions. In Camacho, Tanato, Cabog-Cabog, and Dangcol, 4DIBLE successfully reached more than 60 children, demonstrating strong peer leadership and compassion. Finally, in Tenejero and Sibacan, HIGH 5 reached over 50 children continuing their sessions despite extreme heat and unexpected brownouts, proving that dedication does not waver in the face of challenges.
Across all sessions, the same six essential themes were shared: protecting oneself, consent and respect, healthy physical lifestyle, adolescent sexual and reproductive health, positive relationships, and mental health. These are not just lessons but they are tools for life, delivered by young people to their own peers.
This milestone would not have been possible without the unwavering support and guidance of Peace Corps Philippines, especially Anne Tengson and Josh Brown, the dedicated Peace Corps Volunteers and PCV Leaders, and Mr. Ambet Yangco. Deep gratitude is also extended to Hon. Mayor Raquel Francis D. Garcia, SP Nazareth Vasquez and SPs and all barangay officials and partners across the City of Balanga whose commitment helped bring this vision to life. Kudos also to CSWDO, Ma'am Lalaine, Tek, Simei, Admin Staff and our Child Development Workers for their hard work.
Project Youth LEAD stands today as more than a program. It is living proof that when local government, international partners, and young leaders come together with a shared purpose, transformation becomes real and sustainable.
And this is only the beginning because a new generation of leaders has already risen.
