Local Roots, Global Goals: 72 Young Leaders Gather in Cabacungan for Youth Empowerment Festival

Cabacungan, August 9, 2025 — The covered court in Cabacungan came alive with the voices, laughter, and determination of 72 young leaders from three schools who gathered for the Local Roots, Global Goals: Festival for Young Leaders. Far more than just a celebration of International Youth Day, the event became a powerful reminder that today’s youth are not just preparing for the future — they are shaping it now.

Organized by FundLife in partnership with local community leaders, the festival brought together children and youth aged 9 to 17 from Cabacungan National High School, Dulag National High School, and Rawis Elementary School. Through a full day of play-based activities, cultural games, and inspiring conversations, participants strengthened their leadership, resilience, and understanding of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) — proving that local action can ignite global change.

The day opened with an energizing message from Mr. Reniel Mangampo of the Local Youth Development Office, urging participants to embrace life’s challenges with courage. “The problems you face in school… are part of the experiences you need to go through. This is your reality. As young people, you must show resilience in these situations… Be prepared for whatever life throws at you,” he encouraged, also inviting them to join upcoming Linggo ng Kabataan activities in Dulag.

From the Trust Line to the Promise Tree Mural, from Maze Drawing to Laro ng Lahi, every activity challenged participants to think, work together, and lead — all while honoring Filipino culture and promoting values like cooperation, equality, inclusion, and child rights. By weaving SDG themes into each game, the festival turned fun into fuel for personal growth and community action.

Every participant went home not just with memories, but with tangible support: hygiene kits to promote personal health, school supplies to aid their education, and small treats as recognition for their positivity, perseverance, and teamwork. The festival concluded with a heartfelt awarding ceremony, honoring not just the winners of the day’s games but also those who embodied the spirit of leadership through the Unbreakable Spirit Award, Positive Force Award, and Heart Over Hype Award.

For participants like Nhilly Mae of Cabacungan National High School, the lessons learned go far beyond the day’s activities. “These Saturday sessions are not just about futsal, but also about learning new things and getting to know ourselves better… FundLife has helped me become more disciplined and confident. The lessons I’ve learned, I now carry with me, knowing they will help me become a better and more disciplined person,” she shared, urging new members to join and experience the same growth.

In a single day, the Local Roots, Global Goals festival brought together different schools, genders, and backgrounds in one shared space of belonging. It proved that when young people are given the tools, encouragement, and opportunities to lead, they step forward with energy, vision, and hope — ready to build a more inclusive, resilient, and united future.