A province-wide youth fair returned to the Cebu Provincial Capitol on Wednesday, Aug. 26, bringing together youth organizations to showcase programs, activities and opportunities for young Cebuanos.
The two-day fair at Capitol Parking Lot 1 marks the return of the provincial government’s youth fair after more than seven years as the Cebu Provincial Government works to increase youth participation in community and development programs.
The activity forms part of the provincial government’s youth development efforts under Gov. Pamela Baricuatro. The Provincial Board recently approved a Provincial Youth Development Plan that includes funding support for youth-led initiatives.
Provincial SK Federation President and Provincial Board Member Loren Singco, Cebu Provincial Youth Development Office-designate youth focal Mikee Empaces and RAFI Community Stakeholder Management head Garrett Paolo Nolasco led the opening.
Empaces said the fair aims to introduce young people to programs where they can participate, particularly those involving the environment, sports and health.
“Goal nato diri nga mapakita nga na’y different programs for the youth,” Empaces said.
“We want to raise awareness sa kabatan-onan nga they can participate in different activities, like naay for the environment, sports, health.”
The fair is open to young people from across Cebu, including students studying in Cebu City. It also gives participants a chance to connect with organizations beyond their schools and communities.
Singco said the recently approved Provincial Youth Development Plan provides P35 million in funding support for youth initiatives and programs, which could give young people more opportunities to develop and implement community-based projects.
Empaces also credited Baricuatro’s support for youth development, noting that the governor’s experience in the Sangguniang Kabataan helped shape her efforts to revive youth-oriented provincial activities.
“Gov. Pam is really supportive kay she believes man gyud nga empowering the youth will really bring progress and change sa atoang Probinsya sa Sugbo,” Empaces said.
At least 30 exhibitors from youth groups and organizations are taking part in the fair. Participants can learn about ongoing projects, explore volunteer opportunities and get ideas they can adapt in their communities.
The fair also includes a Trivia Night at around 5 p.m. and a Provincial Film Festival at 7 p.m. featuring at least 10 short films by young Cebuano filmmakers.
The films highlight youth perspectives, local culture and creative storytelling.
The provincial government encouraged young Cebuanos to visit the Capitol and participate in the remaining activities.
The fair seeks to give young people opportunities not only to learn about available programs but also to connect with fellow youth groups and take part in community development.
Photo courtesy of Cebu Provincial Youth Development Office / FB
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