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Youth Leaders Push for Greater Role in Bangsamoro Peacebuilding
DAVAO CITY — Young leaders from various sectors gathered here on January 21–23, 2026 for the Youth, Peace and Security (YPS) Consultation titled “From Participants to Influence: Youth Engagements in the Bangsamoro,” calling for stronger and more meaningful youth involvement in peacebuilding and governance processes in the Bangsamoro.
The three-day consultation, supported by Initiatives for International Dialogue (IID), provided a platform for youth advocates to discuss their roles in conflict prevention, community development, and democratic participation. Participants emphasized that young people should be recognized not merely as beneficiaries or attendees of peace initiatives, but as key actors capable of influencing policies and decisions.
Representing Central Mindanao Colleges, Mark Rey A. Ampuan joined fellow youth leaders in underscoring the importance of empowering young people to take on leadership roles in peace processes. Discussions highlighted the need to strengthen youth capacities, expand inclusive spaces for engagement, and institutionalize mechanisms that allow youth voices to shape governance outcomes in the Bangsamoro.
The consultation tackled key issues such as youth leadership development, inclusive governance, collaboration with civil society and academic institutions, and the creation of safe spaces for dialogue. Participants shared experiences and best practices aimed at ensuring that youth perspectives are integrated into local and regional peace efforts.
Organizers noted that the initiative contributes to the advancement of the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).
As the consultation concluded, participants reaffirmed their commitment to continue working collectively to ensure that youth in the Bangsamoro are not only heard, but are actively shaping a more peaceful, inclusive, and sustainable future for their communities.
Publishers: CMC Cial Activities