Behind every public program, ordinance, and community initiative lies a process of discussion, consultation, deliberation, and policy development that ultimately shapes decisions and influences outcomes within communities. This process was placed in focus during the 1st Laoag City Youth Parliament, which gathered 70 young leaders from across Laoag City for a three-day immersion in parliamentary procedures, legislative writing, and policy-making under the theme “Empowering Laoagueño Youth Voices in Local Governance and Nation-Building.”
Organized by the Local Youth Development Office (LYDO) and the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Federation of Laoag City, the initiative provided delegates with an opportunity to better understand how public concerns are translated into policies and how governance mechanisms are utilized to address issues affecting communities.
As Guest of Honor and Speaker during the opening ceremony, Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB) Chairperson – Secretary Oscar Valenzuela cited findings from the 2023 National Household Survey on the Patterns and Trends of Drug Abuse, which showed that many individuals who have used illegal drugs were first exposed during their youth, often due to peer influence or curiosity. He emphasized that these realities underscore the importance of preventive education and meaningful youth engagement, highlighting initiatives such as the National Drug Education Program (NDEP) and Barkada Kontra Droga (BKD), which continue to strengthen prevention efforts in schools and communities by promoting informed decision-making, positive peer engagement, and healthy lifestyles.
Throughout the Youth Parliament, delegates engaged with issues that communities encounter across various sectors, including health, education, youth development, and drug prevention. Through parliamentary simulations and policy discussions, participants gained a deeper appreciation of the considerations involved in public decision-making, including the importance of dialogue, collaboration, and evidence-informed approaches in addressing community concerns.
As delegates exchanged perspectives and examined concerns relevant to their localities, the discussions highlighted the value of considering issues from multiple viewpoints and understanding their broader implications on communities.
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