Hundreds of young leaders, innovators, and advocates gathered at SM City Bacolod Aug. 8 for the Global Youth Summit (GYS) 2025, a nationwide initiative of SM Cares, the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, in partnership with the Global Peace Foundation (GPF) Philippines.
The event brought together 760 participants from schools, organizations, and communities across Bacolod and Negros Occidental, to engage in inspiring discussions and collaborative activities that advance the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
This year’s program featured Jannele Jimenez, GEDSI specialist of the Negrosnanon Young Leaders Institute Inc.; Angela Grace Diamartin, national chairperson for the Student Council Alliance of the Philippines (SCAP); and Niña Connie Dodd, interim regional director of TESDA-Negros Island Region, who shared their experiences and insights on topics such as SDG 5: Gender Equality, SDG 4: Quality Education, and SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth.
Special messages were also given by provincial social welfare and development officer Chiqui Gonzales, in behalf of Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson, and executive assistant Ayesha Joy Villaflor, in behalf of Bacolod Mayor Greg Gasataya.
Participants also enjoyed performances from NU Bacolod and the Kanlaon Theater Guild during the special segments, adding to the celebratory and empowering atmosphere of the event.
“We are thankful for this initiative that brings our young leaders together to learn and even teach because the youth gathered at this Global Youth Summit are not just here to be inspired but to also become inspiring,” George Jardiolin, SM Supermalls’ Visayas regional operations manager, said in a statement Aug. 10.
Participants came from towns and cities of Negros Occidental, representing their Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) councils, schools, and districts.
Sagay City took the spotlight, with having the largest contingent at this year’s summit with 135 delegates.
“We take pride that the Sagaynon youth were not just participants, but changemakers shaping a fairer, smarter, and more empowered future for all,” Sagay City SK Federation president Marnielin Marco said.
The Bacolod leg of GYS 2025 is part of a series of summits held across 17 SM Malls nationwide, which started at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City. Each leg serves as a platform for young changemakers to network, learn from experts, and collaborate on projects that support the SDGs.
SM Cares and GPF remain committed to empowering the next generation by providing them with spaces and opportunities to lead initiatives that create positive change in their communities. ||
