26/05/2026
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BRGY. TAGUILON, Dapitan City [May 23, 2026] โWith snorkeling activities, disaster simulations, cyber safety sessions, and environmental learning camps rolled into one immersive experience, the 4-day Eco-Scout Summit 2026 officially opens in celebration of the Month of the Ocean, gathering youth leaders and government agencies under the theme โSalom sa Kaugmaon sa Zamboanga del Norte.โ
Organized by ChildFund Philippines in co-sponsorship with the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO), the summit aims to empower the younger generation to become advocates of environmental protection, disaster resilience, digital responsibility, and community leadership.
The summit opened with the participation of collaborating agencies including the Bureau of Fire Protection, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Department of Information and Communications Technology, Department of the Interior and Local Government, DOST-PHIVOLCS, Philippine Red Cross-Zamboanga del Norte Chapter, Provincial Population Office, PSWDO, and other partner institutions supporting youth-centered initiatives.
In his welcome remarks, PDDRM Officer Atty. Arvin Bonbon emphasized the importance of engaging young people in protecting natural resources and strengthening community resilience for future generations. Meanwhile, Governor Darel Dexter Uy conveyed his message of support through Board Member Dario Mandantes, restating the provincial governmentโs commitment to youth empowerment and environmental protection. Support for the initiative was also expressed by Dapitan City Mayor Evelyn Tang Uy through a message delivered by City Councilor Jeneth Baje.
Packed with interactive and educational activities, the summit features learning sessions on Disaster Risk Reduction-Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation (DRR-CCAM), cyber security and data privacy, gender sensitivity and the Safe Spaces Act, population awareness, and drug prevention. Participants also underwent life-saving skills training such as Basic Life Support and first aid simulations, while experiential learning activities including snorkeling provided hands-on appreciation for marine conservation and environmental protection.
Organizers said the summit aims to strengthen youth leadership and participation through collaborative planning and decision-making, while also promoting multi-sectoral convergence among LGUs and partner agencies. The activity also seeks to support youth-led advocacy initiatives through the creation of Information, Education, and Communication materials, including DRR-themed comics focused on preparedness before, during, and after disasters.
