BY MA. THERESA LADIAO
ILOILO City – On May 25, 2024, SM City Iloilo became a vibrant hub for youth advocacy and climate action. It hosted the Iloilo leg of the 2024 Global Youth Summit (GYS).
Organized by SM Cares and the Global Peace Foundation (GPF), this event was part of a 17-city series aimed at addressing all 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The focus for the Iloilo summit was SDG 13: Climate Action, urging the youth to take urgent steps to combat climate change and its impacts.
The summit commenced with an opening message from Richard Caluyo, the Assistant Vice President for Marketing at SM Cares.
“Today is about you. It is not what you wear but the values and advocacies that you will pursue after the Global Youth Summit. It is you, your smile, and your desire to change this community. It is not about Global Youth Summit all the time. But it is what you learn in this Global Youth Summit. And again, it’s you that will help change the future,” he emphasized, setting the tone for a day dedicated to empowerment and learning.
Raisa Treñas-Chu, executive assistant to the City Mayor, delivered a powerful keynote address on behalf of Mayor Jerry P. Treñas.
“Together, let us rise to the challenge and work towards a brighter future for Iloilo City and beyond,” she said, inspiring the attendees to actively participate in shaping a sustainable future for their city and beyond.
The GYS provided over 2,000 students and youth leaders with a platform to engage in a series of activities, seminars, and workshops centered around climate action. Resource speakers shared their insights and expertise on various aspects of sustainable development.
Engr. Niel Ravena, Iloilo City General Services Officer, spoke on “Green Horizons: Empowering Towards Climate Action”, highlighting the significant role of mangroves in carbon sequestration.
Enp. Ronald M. Cartagena, City Planning and Development Coordinator, presented “Community Participation in Urban Planning and Governance”, emphasizing the importance of youth involvement in creating sustainable cities and communities.
Dr. Jasper Ruby Vijar from Team Dugong Bughaw discussed “Youth Strategies for Sustainable Communities” under SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions.
Ingil Ra, regional president of the Global Peace Foundation Asia Pacific, elaborated on SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals in his talk on “Development through Youth Innovation and Entrepreneurship.” He stressed the importance of collaboration and community service, stating, “Not overtaking our neighbors, but serving our neighbors, serving others, that is the ethos of Korean people.”
The Global Youth Summit is a flagship event under SM Cares’ broader initiative supporting the UN SDGs. Beyond the summit, SM Cares runs numerous programs for children and youth, including The Book Nook — a free library and community hub promoting literacy and bonding through books, workshops, and activities. Additionally, SM Cares supports UNICEF’s educational programs for children.
In its commitment to holistic community support, SM Cares also implements programs focusing on the environment, women and breastfeeding mothers, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities. Through these initiatives, SM Cares continues to drive positive change, empowering the youth to lead and inspire their communities toward a sustainable and equitable future./PN
