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ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines — In a powerful display of resilience, adaptability, and commitment to excellence, three members of JCI Davao have successfully completed Gabay Year 5 under the JCI Skills Development Training program, emerging as part of the newest generation of certified trainers in Mindanao.
Held from March 6 to 8, 2026, in the culturally rich city of Zamboanga, the program brought together aspiring trainers from across the region for an intensive learning experience designed to equip participants with the competencies to educate, inspire, and lead within and beyond JCI.
JCI Davao Expands Its Pool of Certified Trainers
Representing JCI Davao in this year’s graduating class are:
- Ralph dela Cerna – 2026 Deputy Vice President for Business Opportunities
- Aljon Pasuhil – 2026 Deputy Vice President for Community Development
- Ally Jaspher Basit – 2026 Local Skills Development Director
Their successful completion of the JCI Skills Development Training marks a significant milestone in strengthening JCI Davao’s internal training capabilities, ensuring that the organization continues to develop competent leaders equipped with the skills to create sustainable impact.
Powered by National Leadership in JCI Skills Development Training
The program was hosted by JCI Isla Rosa de Zamboanga and conducted by the National Skills Development Team, led by 2026 National Skills Development Director Heaven Peñaflorida, with Head Trainer Mark Padilla and the rest of the NSDD team of JCI Philippines.
Guiding the initiative is the powerful theme reiterated by the 2026 Area Skills Development Director:
“Fuel the skills, fly with passion.”
This principle highlights the essence of JCI Skills Development Training—that growth within the organization is driven by individuals who are committed to sharing knowledge, building competencies, and empowering others to succeed.
Batch Vamos: A Celebration of Diversity and Determination
This year’s cohort, proudly named Batch Vamos, takes inspiration from the Chavacano word “Vamos,” meaning “Let’s go.” The name reflects both the vibrant identity of Zamboanga City and the collective drive of participants who traveled from different parts of Mindanao—some from the farthest locations—to take part in the JCI Skills Development Training.
More than just a training, Gabay Year 5 became a true test of character.
During their final presentations, participants faced intentionally designed challenges introduced by the National Skills Development Team to simulate real-world training scenarios. These included:
- Sudden absence of a team member
- Technical disruptions such as non-functioning microphones
- Loss of presentation tools like projectors
- External distractions that tested focus and adaptability
Despite these hurdles, all participants demonstrated exceptional composure and creativity, successfully delivering their presentations and earning their place as certified trainers.
Shaping Future Trainers and Leaders
The JCI Skills Development Training program is a cornerstone initiative aimed at producing certified JCI trainers who will lead learning and development efforts within their respective local organizations.
For JCI Davao, these newly certified Gabay graduates are expected to:
- Facilitate impactful training sessions within the organization
- Lead workshops and capacity-building programs
- Mentor members and aspiring leaders
- Represent JCI Davao in national training initiatives
Beyond JCI, their newly acquired skills position them to deliver training in professional and community settings, expanding their influence and reinforcing JCI’s mission of creating positive change.
Looking Ahead: Expanding Impact Across Mindanao
As graduates of the JCI Skills Development Training, they now have opportunities to further their journey by participating in national platforms such as the Mid-Year Convention and the Future Leaders Academy.
Their journey does not end with graduation—it begins a new chapter of teaching, leading, and inspiring others.
With the successful completion of Gabay Year 5, JCI Davao continues to strengthen its role as a leader in youth development and skills training in Mindanao, ensuring that the next generation of leaders is not only prepared—but empowered to lead with purpose.
