IN an endeavor to amplify the voices of aspiring youth leaders in the realm of public service, Xavier University hosted a pivotal event, providing a platform for young individuals to engage with their peers.
A press briefing took place at the Office of Mission and Ministry conference room at Xavier University on October 22, spanning from two o'clock to four in the afternoon.

Named "Pag-ila 2023: Kabataan, Pag-asa ng Bayan," this series of forums extends invitations to candidates running for the position of Sangguniang Kabataan Chairperson in the 2023 Barangay Elections, representing the first and second districts of the city. The primary aim of this initiative is to spotlight local youth governance and is organized by the Xavier University Central Student Government (XU CSG).

These forums are scheduled to be held on October 25 and 26 at the Xavier University Grade School Auditorium in Macasandig, Cagayan de Oro City.

EMPOWERING THE YOUTH. Joanna Camile Aparece, co-project head of Pag-ila 2023: Kabataan, Pag-asa ng Bayan (Center) together with other organizers conduct a press briefing on October 22 at the Xavier University main campus in Corrales St., downtown Cagayan de Oro. Photo by Pat Jared V. Pangantihon

Kyle Chester Cotacte, the Public Relations Director of XU CSG, emphasized, "Ang Pag-ila dili ni siya debate, this is an avenue for all mga SK Chairman nga kandidato nga mapa ila-ila nila ilang mga kaugalingon, sa mga voters sa barangay." Cotacte further explained that candidates are employing various methods to connect with voters, including house-to-house visits, handshaking, and visiting different zones within their barangays.

"It’s the same with Pag-ila, but with broader reach in terms of media, and we will also be informed by way of the candidates themselves," she added.

While invitations have been extended to all SK Chairman candidates, the final count of attendees remains uncertain, pending responses from the invitees.

Joanna Camille Aparece, Co-project Head of Pag-ila 2023, clarified the event's scope: "Specified gyud ang scope sa Pag-ila for SK Chairperson lang kay we recognize the need to recognize the youth and their role in nation-building. So that’s why we’ve ensured that, as a department within the Central Student Government, we focus solely on what is near and dear to our mission and vision, not only as event planners but as student leaders," Aparece explained.

The forum will be live-streamed on Xavier University’s platforms, offering the opportunity for a broad audience to watch the event. You can access the livestream through the following links: Xavier University's Official Facebook Page, Pagila 2022 Facebook Page, and XUCSG Facebook Page.

This event is a collaborative effort with the Cagayan de Oro City Commission on Elections, the National Citizens Movement for Free Elections, the Philippine Information Agency, and the Oro Youth Development Council. Furthermore, it is in partnership with other student organizations within Xavier University and various schools in the city.