COTABATO CITY (November 28, 2024) – BARMM youth in the Special Geographic Area honed their policy-making skills during the Bangsamoro Youth Commission’s 4th Peace and Environmental Youth Camp in Poblacion Kabacan, North Cotabato.
Beginning on November 25 and concluding on November 27, participants were guided through the essentials of policy formulation, crafting a comprehensive policy agenda centered on youth, peace, and the environment—an effort integral to advancing the Commission’s role as the primary policy-making body for the youth in the region.
BYC Commissioner Nas Dunding, in his remarks, urged the youth to actively engage in their communities’ fight for peace, emphasizing the interconnectedness of peace and environmental advocacy.
He reminded them to reflect on their purpose for participating in such programs, stressing the importance of understanding why they choose to support these advocacies.
“The Bangsamoro Government envisions a youth actively engaged in the fight for peace in our communities—a peace that extends to a broader justice system and ensures greater youth participation. As we take part in programs like this, we must deeply understand our purpose and the reason for our involvement. Why do we choose to support this advocacy?” he said.
“It is essential to recognize that peace and the environment are inseparable. After this training, we look forward to working alongside you in promoting and advancing this advocacy for the betterment of our communities.” he added.
Meanwhile, the camp also introduced participants to the fundamentals of peacebuilding, the Culture of Peace, conflict resolution, and the integration of environmental protection with peace efforts. Discussions included Bangsamoro history through the session “PEACEtorya,” sustainable environmental practices, and voter education on the BARMM Priority Codes.
Topics discussed during the Youth Camp included an exploration of the roots and rich heritage of Bangsamoro history through the session “PEACEtorya,” which delved into the region’s cultural and historical foundations.
Other sessions covered the fundamentals of peacebuilding and conflict resolution, sustainable environmental practices to address urgent challenges, and voter’s education focusing on the BARMM Priority Codes, among others.
PEYC is a multifaceted endeavor that intends to provide an avenue for the youth in the 63 Barangays of North Cotabato in creating a safe space to participate in peacebuilding, environmental action, and adaptation efforts as essential for fostering their active engagement, empowerment, and meaningful contribution to sustainable development.
It aims to empower young leaders with the knowledge, skills, and networks to become effective advocates for peacebuilding and environmental stewardship in their respective communities.
Partnered with various institutions, PEYC is funded by the Office of Member of the Parliament Kadil “Jojo” Sinolinding under Transitional Development Fund for Fiscal Year 2024. (BYC PR Unit/AAA).
