In celebration of the International Youth Day 2025, the DILG-NCR in partnership with the City Government of Valenzuela conducted “YOUth Matter: Kabataan, Tumayo at Tumindig Bilang Tinig ng Kinabukasan” on August 12, 2025 at the COED Assembly Hall, Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Valenzuela.

The Youth Summit tackled sessions on strengthening youth participation in local governance, uplifted voices and stories of Valenzuela youth in advancing positive peace and development, their role as catalysts of change in advancing sustainable development, mental and emotional health, responsible digital citizenship, and career paths and entrepreneurship. The sessions gave the young participants a clearer picture of how they can actively contribute to their communities.

From promoting the Sustainable Development Goals and addressing mental health concerns, to strengthening youth participation in governance, embracing digital responsibility, and exploring careers and entrepreneurship, each discussion emphasized that the youth are key partners in building more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable communities. Over 500 young leaders from the Sanggunian ng Kabataan Federation, youth organizations, and students took part in the celebration of International Youth Day 2025. 

In her opening message, DILG-NCR Regional Director Maria Lourdes L. Agustin, CESO III highlighted that the International Youth Day serves as a beacon for raising awareness on the pressing issues faced by the youth, while also celebrating their immense contributions to their communities. “Today’s summit is not just about talking, it’s about listening, learning, and most importantly, taking action,” RD Agustin emphasized. 

Valenzuela City Mayor Weslie “Wes” Ting Gatchalian, recognized the youth as key stakeholders in achieving the city’s development goals in his keynote address. He also reaffirmed the commitment of the City Government in championing youth empowerment through the launch of the Youth Matter Caravan which aims to provide an avenue where youth and students can share their voice, experiences, and address their concerns to the City Government. 

The Youth Summit also featured a “Youth Street” where booths were set-up showcasing the PPAs, advocacies, artworks, crafts, products, and innovations of student organizations, youth organizations, and relevant government offices of the Valenzuela LGU.  

To culminate the activity, youth were engaged in a campaign making session in which they creatively expressed their key learnings from the Summit, their vision for the youth in the community, and how they envision to be part of this change. 

In her closing message, DILG-NCR’s Assistant Regional Director, Atty. Ana Lyn R. Baltazar-Cortez, CESO IV urged the youth to continue shaping the present and the future. “Tumayo kayo. Tumindig kayo. Kayo ang tinig ng kinabukasan, at kayo rin ang pag-asa ng kasalukuyan.” 

YOUth Matter: Kabataan, Tumayo at Tumindig Bilang Tinig ng Kinabukasan advanced the goals of the Capacitating Urban Communities for Peace and Development (CUCPD) Program, which seeks to engage the youth and student sector towards the attainment of inclusive peace and sustainable development.