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Davao City, June 4, 2025 — The spirit of youth leadership in Mindanao came alive at the JCI Philippines Youth Leadership Excellence Award (YLEA) Area Launching and Regional Awarding Ceremony, held at Lyceum of the Philippines University (LPU) – Davao. The event brought together student leaders from various schools across the region in celebration of their academic excellence, character, and potential to lead change in their communities.
The event was led by Regional Chairperson Jerry Acido, Jr., also the Project Chair of the recently concluded 58th Most Outstanding High School Graduate (MOHSG), and Area Chairperson Engr. Sherwin Lester Dumago. Both are esteemed members of JCI Davao, further cementing the chapter’s strong influence on youth empowerment initiatives across the region.
🌟 What is YLEA?
The Youth Leadership Excellence Award (YLEA) is a national flagship program of JCI Philippines that seeks to recognize graduating junior and senior high school students who demonstrate academic competence, exemplary conduct, and commitment to leadership and civic responsibility. By recognizing students early in their leadership journey, YLEA aims to cultivate a new generation of Filipinos who are service-oriented, ethical, and socially engaged.
YLEA is a testament to JCI’s mission to inspire young people to recognize their potential as proactive citizens—laying the foundation for youth-led change across the country.
🏅 Recognizing Excellence Across Davao Region
At the ceremony, dozens of outstanding students were awarded YLEA medals by their respective JCI local organizations in recognition of their exemplary achievements. Notably, all nominees of the 58th MOHSG—JCI Davao’s legacy project were automatically awarded with YLEA honors, strengthening the integration of the two hallmark youth recognition programs.
These honorees embody the values of both YLEA and MOHSG: academic integrity, leadership by example, and community impact. Their recognition affirms the region’s commitment to uplifting youth who will serve as catalysts for sustainable progress in Mindanao.
🎓 A Campus Tour for the Curious Mind
Beyond the awarding rites, student attendees were also treated to an educational campus tour of LPU Davao, where they explored various academic facilities and university programs. This enriching experience encouraged them to envision their academic future and further ignited their aspirations for leadership and innovation.
💬 From the Leaders
“YLEA is not just a medal—it is a mindset,” said Regional Chair Jerry Acido, Jr. “It represents our confidence in young leaders who are not just achievers in school but also dreamers, doers, and changemakers for Mindanao.”
Engr. Sherwin Lester Dumago, Area Chair for YLEA and fellow JCI Davao member, echoed this sentiment: “We are shaping a generation that leads with purpose, compassion, and action.”
🌍 Moving Forward
As the Youth Leadership Excellence Award expands across the Philippines, its impact continues to grow—especially in regions like Davao, where youth potential is abundant, and the commitment to nurturing it runs deep.
With the successful launch and awarding ceremony now part of its growing legacy, JCI Davao and its partners reaffirm their commitment to investing in young leaders who will define the future of Mindanao.
💡 Want to support or be part of youth leadership initiatives in Mindanao?
Connect with JCI Davao and join us in empowering the next generation of changemakers. Together, let’s build a brighter, bolder future.
