Baguio City- With an audience of more than 1,000 youth, Department of Social Welfare and Development Secretary Rolando Joselito D. Bautista emphasized the role of young Filipinos in transforming Philippines into a better nation. 

Secretary Bautista served as the Key Note Speaker for the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) National Summit organized by the National Youth Commission held here on 7 April 2022 at the Baguio Convention Center.

The National Summit was attended by SK officials and young leaders from the different regions of the country with the aim to discuss and share their experiences and strategies in addressing community concerns including the COVID-19 pandemic and to recognize the sector’s contributions for the community. 

In his message, Secretary Bautista recognized the leadership role of the youth attendees in their communities and further encouraged them to continue being role models in their respective areas. 

“A leader has two main tasks: the accomplishment of the mission and to look after the welfare of his followers. In making a decision, you always balance these tasks because each one complements the other. You have to inspire and motivate them to follow you”, Secretary Bautista said. 

Secretary Bautista also shared the characteristics of a leader such as having positive energy and proactive attitude, being approachable, decisive and accountable, and being able to delegate tasks and do what they expect of others. 

Youth in Nation Building 

The DSWD has always been in close coordination with the National Youth Commission (NYC) to promote and develop the welfare of the youth. Through Republic Act 8044, NYC was established to direct all youth promotion and development programs and activities for the attainment of full potential of the youth as partners in nation-building. 

“All of us have roles to play, and you can help any government agency or institution as part of your contribution to nation-building. But you can do more if you will be a part of DSWD’s efforts to uplift the living conditions of our kababayans”, Secretary Bautista reinforcing the role of the youth. 

Furthermore, he encouraged the youth participants to be good stewards of good governance and becoming beacon of truth, integrity, and patriotism by making use of resources for the good of humanity. 

“Being a part of the Government at such a young age should be taken seriously. Think of it as a gateway or the first step to a greater responsibility. I hope and pray that you make the most of this opportunity to serve. Take it seriously, and not to take it for granted”, he added.

Secretary Bautista also challenged the youth participants to make a difference in tasks or positions given to them. 

“Every effort counts, no matter how small and insignificant it may seem. Just do something, and do something good”, Secretary Bautista shared. 

In closing, the DSWD Chief recognized the efforts of the youth leaders. 

“Sa inyong lahat, maraming salamat sa inyong serbisyo at alam ko na ginagawa ninyo ito “por el amor ala patria”- dahil sa pagmamahal sa bayan”, he said. #DSWD FIELD OFFICE CAR, SOCIAL MARKETING UNIT, NERIZZA FAYE G. VILLANUEVA-TRINIDAD